The Wage and Hour Division is responsible for enforcing some of the nation’s most comprehensive federal labor laws. The workers who are protected by these laws often want to know: How do we do what we do?
Many investigations are initiated by complaints, which are confidential. The name of the complainant, the nature of the complaint, and whether a complaint exists may not be disclosed. An employer cannot retaliate against a worker for exercising their rights, filing a complaint or cooperating with an investigation.
Complaint Process
Gather Information
Gather information you will need to file your complaint. While third-party complainants may not be able to provide all the information needed, the more information made available the better we can address concerns raised.
Decide How to File
Reach out to us online or call 1-866-487-9243.
We Work with You
We will work with you to answer your questions and determine whether an investigation is the best course of action.
Information You Need to File a Complaint
Gather information you will need to file your complaint with us.
Visits to Employers
Learn more about the investigation process and the laws we cover.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions and answers about filing a complaint with WHD.
In addition to complaints, we select certain types of businesses or industries for investigation. We target low-wage industries, for example, because of high rates of violations or egregious violations, the employment of vulnerable workers, or rapid changes in an industry, such as growth or decline.
Here’s a breakdown of our typical investigation processes, regardless of whether the investigation starts from a complaint or an agency-initiated investigation:
Investigation Process
Initial Conference
Our investigator holds an initial conference with the employer and/or the employer’s representative and tours the employer’s establishment.
Conducting Interviews
Our investigator interviews employees in private.
Reviewing Records
The WHD investigator reviews the employer’s records to determine compliance.
Final Conference
We hold a final conference with the employer and/or the employer’s representative to discuss any violations found and how to correct them. If back wages are owed to employees, the investigator will request payment of back wages.
If you have questions or concerns, you can call us at 1-866-487-9243 or visit dol.gov/agencies/whd. You will be directed to the nearest WHD office for assistance. There are WHD offices throughout the country with trained professionals to help you.