FAQs

How do I know if I am being underpaid?

Please see Finding out if you are underpaid.

Will I get into trouble for asking questions or lodging a claim?

There is legislation to prevent such harassment from happening. When a worker is picked on for unfavourable treatment because they have made a complaint it is called victimisation. This is unlawful during your employment, and also after by refusing to write a reference.

Can I make a claim while still working for my employer or after I have left?

There is nothing to stop you making a claim in either case.

My predecessor or successor is paid more than me for doing the same job.

If this is the case then you may have an equal pay claim and you should contact a solicitor.

For more information please see Equal pay & Private Company Employees.

My employer has offered me money or a pay rise after a job evaluation, what should I do?

This means that your employer realises that you may have an equal pay claim (although they are unlikely to admit it) and they would like to reach a settlement with you.  You should be very careful of accepting any offer like this without taking legal advice, as any settlement will be on condition that you sign away your rights.

Please see Compensation for more information.

How long is the process likely to take?

It takes about one and a half years from lodging a claim for it to be heard at the Employment Tribunal.  It is possible, however, that a settlement may be reached before this.  The Tribunal itself should only take about ten days.  
 
Bear in mind that once you lodge a claim any money that is owing to you continues to accrue with interest which will leave you with an even higher amount if you win.