What is the Equal Pay Act in simple terms?

The Equal Pay Act requires that men and women in the same workplace be given equal pay for equal work. The jobs need not be identical, but they must be substantially equal. If there is an inequality in wages between men and women, employers may not reduce the wages of either sex to equalize their pay.

How do you explain equal pay?

Equal pay means that women and men have the right to receive equal remuneration for work of equal value. This means ensuring that women and men working in identical or similar jobs receive the same pay.

How far back can an equal pay claim go?

six years
If a worker successfully brings an Equal Pay claim they can recover: Back pay, i.e. the difference between what the worker received and what their comparator received. The maximum period for which back pay can be awarded is six years, but in some cases awards of back pay can go back further.

What percentage of a man’s wage does a woman make doing the same job?

In the United States, for example, the non-adjusted average female’s annual salary is 79% of the average male salary, compared to 95% for the adjusted average salary.

Can you sue for pay discrimination?

Can I sue for wage/pay discrimination? You sure can. Pay discrimination is hard to prove, but it can be done. There are legitimate reasons why you might be paid less than a counterpart at your job, and the employers who actually are discriminating will try to use these to justify the illegal practice.

Is it illegal to pay different wages for the same job?

You are entitled to the same pay as anyone doing the same or broadly similar job, or a job of equal value, regardless of gender. There are strict time limits on when you can lodge a claim. If your employer is not treating you equally, they are breaking the law.

Is it legal to pay a woman less than a man?

Federal Action In 1963, Congress passed the Equal Pay Act, which made it illegal for employers to pay women lower wages than men for equal work on jobs requiring the same skill, effort and responsibility. The act provides a cause of action for an employee to directly sue for damages.

Can I sue for being underpaid?

Yes, you can sue for being underpaid. If this first attempt at getting your money does not work, you can consider suing your employer in small claims court or your local court.

Can I sue for equal pay?

The Equal Pay Act (Labor Code section 1197.5) – You may file a lawsuit under the Equal Pay Act if you file within two years after the cause of action occurs (or within three years if it is determined to be a “willful” violation).

Should I marry a man who earns less than me?

Some research suggests that couples are at higher risk of splitting up and less likely to marry when the male partner earns less than the female partner. Even in 2019, old-fashioned views on marriage prevail. American men are still more comfortable in relationships when they are the breadwinners.