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.
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.
Reach out to us online or call 1-866-487-9243.
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:
Our investigator holds an initial conference with the employer and/or the employer’s representative and tours the employer’s establishment.
Our investigator interviews employees in private.
The WHD investigator reviews the employer’s records to determine compliance.
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.
