What Happens If I Report Wage Theft at Work in NYC?
Reporting wage theft in New York City can trigger an investigation, protect your right to unpaid wages, and potentially lead to compensation for lost earnings. While many employees worry about consequences, the law provides strong protections against retaliation when you come forward.
Key TakeawaysCan My Employer Fire Me for Calling Out Sick in NYC?
In New York City, your employer generally cannot fire you for taking protected sick leave. If you use sick time under the law and follow your employer’s policies, termination or discipline for calling out sick may be illegal retaliation.
What Sick Leave Laws Apply in NYC?Do I Still Qualify for Overtime in NYC in 2026?
Is Time Spent Opening or Closing Paid Work in New York?
In New York, time spent opening or closing a workplace is generally considered paid work if it is required and benefits the employer. If you are performing job-related tasks before or after your scheduled shift, that time is typically compensable, even if it is not listed on your schedule.
New York’s “Trapped at Work” Act: What Employees Need to Know
New York's Trapped at Work Act, signed December 19, 2025, prohibits employers from requiring employees to sign agreements that impose repayment obligations if they leave before a set period. These "stay-or-pay" provisions are now declared void and unenforceable under New York Labor Law. In addition, amendments signed on February 13, 2026,...
What Is a “Clopening” Shift and What Does It Mean for Workers?
A “clopening” shift happens when an employee is scheduled to close a workplace late at night and then return early the next morning to open. These back-to-back shifts often leave workers with little time to rest. In New York City, clopening practices are regulated in certain industries under the Fair Workweek Law,...
NYC Grocery Delivery Worker Protections: What Changed in 2025 and What Rights You Have Now
NYC grocery delivery workers gained stronger wage protections in 2025 under updated city rules governing app-based platforms. The Minimum Pay Rate framework that applies to restaurant delivery workers also covers grocery delivery workers operating through qualifying platforms. As of April 1, 2025, the minimum required pay rate is $21.44 per hour, excluding...
App-Based Delivery Worker Pay in NYC: How the $21.44/hour Rule Works & What to Do If You’re Underpaid
App-based food and grocery delivery workers in New York City are entitled to a minimum pay rate set by the NYC Department of Consumer and Worker Protection. As of April 1, 2025, the required minimum pay rate is $21.44 per hour, excluding tips. That rate increases to $22.13 per hour effective April...
Fair Workweek Laws in NYC: Can My Employer Add or Cancel My Shift Without My Written Consent?
In many cases, New York City employers cannot freely add, cancel, or change your shift without following specific Fair Workweek rules. NYC’s Fair Workweek Law requires certain employers, particularly in the fast food and retail industries, to provide advance notice of schedules and, in some situations, obtain written consent before making changes....
New York Drug Testing Laws & Employee Rights
Employers in New York City can legally conduct drug testing only in specific situations, such as pre-employment screening (with limited marijuana exceptions), reasonable suspicion, post-accident investigations, or safety-sensitive roles. However, both New York State and New York City laws impose important limitations on when and how testing can occur.