Section 290.110 of the Missouri Statutes provides important protections to employees in the state when it comes to the nonpayment of wages. This section states that when any person, firm, or corporation doing business in Missouri terminates or refuses to further employ a servant or employee, the unpaid wages of the employee at the contract rate become due and payable on the day of discharge or refusal.
Importantly, these unpaid wages must be paid without any abatement or deduction. This provision ensures that employees receive their earned wages promptly upon termination or refusal to be employed, protecting their financial well-being.
According to Section 290.110, an employee has the right to request in writing for their unpaid wages, or a valid check for the owed amount, to be sent to a designated location where a regular agent is kept.
The employer is responsible for ensuring that the payment or check reaches the specified location within seven days of the written request. Failure to make the payment within the specified timeframe results in penalties. As a penalty for nonpayment, the wages of the employee continue to accrue from the date of discharge or refusal until paid, at the same rate as before, but not exceeding sixty days.
It’s important to note that Section 290.110 exempts certain employees from its provisions. Specifically, employees whose remuneration for work is primarily based on commissions and whose duties include activities such as account collection, care of stock or merchandise, and similar tasks are not covered by this section. Additionally, in cases where an audit is necessary or customary to determine the net amount due, this section does not apply.
This exemption recognizes specific circumstances where the calculation of wages may require additional steps and provides flexibility for employers in those situations.
How can we help: At Voytas Law, we have taken cases from the beginning to trial to fight for your rights as an employee. With years of experience handling these cases, contact us to find out how we can help you stand up for your rights as an employee.
