Unlawful Deductions from Wages

Missing Pay or Unauthorised Wage Deductions

Employees have the right to receive the wages and benefits they are entitled to under their employment contract. If your employer has failed to pay you correctly or has made deductions without a lawful basis, you may be able to recover the money owed to you.

Wage disputes can arise in many different circumstances, including:

  • Non-payment of wages or salary;

  • Unauthorised deductions from pay;

  • Unpaid overtime;

  • Failure to pay holiday pay;

  • Unpaid bonuses or commission;

  • Non-payment of contractual sick pay;

  • Incorrect final salary payments;

  • Failure to pay notice pay; and

  • Other breaches of contractual pay entitlements.

If your employer has withheld money without a valid reason or has failed to pay sums that are contractually due, you may have grounds to take action.

What Can You Do?

In many cases, the first step is to raise the issue directly with your employer, manager, payroll department, or HR team. Wage disputes can sometimes arise from administrative mistakes that can be resolved quickly once identified.

If the matter cannot be resolved informally, you may wish to:

  • Submit a formal grievance;

  • Request a review of payroll records and calculations;

  • Engage in ACAS Early Conciliation;

  • Seek a negotiated settlement; or

  • Bring a claim before the Employment Tribunal.

Claims for unlawful deductions from wages are subject to strict time limits. In most cases, a claim must be brought within three months less one day from the date of the last deduction or non-payment. It is therefore important to seek advice as soon as possible.

How Bridgefield Legal Can Help

At Bridgefield Legal, we understand that wage disputes can place significant financial and emotional pressure on employees. We provide clear, practical advice designed to help you recover the money you are entitled to and protect your employment rights.

Our services include:

  • Assessing the strength of your claim;

  • Reviewing contracts, payslips, and employment records;

  • Advising on unpaid wages, holiday pay, and contractual entitlements;

  • Drafting grievances and employer correspondence;

  • Assisting with ACAS Early Conciliation;

  • Negotiating settlements with employers;

  • Preparing Employment Tribunal claims; and

  • Providing Employment Tribunal representation.

Our aim is to resolve disputes efficiently and professionally while ensuring your rights are fully protected.

Make an Enquiry Today

If your employer has failed to pay wages, holiday pay, sick pay, commission, or other sums owed to you, contact Bridgefield Legal for a free initial consultation.

📞 Call us on 0141 255 1068 or book a free consultation to discuss your circumstances with an experienced adviser.

We will assess your situation, explain your options, and discuss the most appropriate strategy for recovering the money owed to you.

book a free consultation