Situation:
I had asked for weekly payments to my employer before starting the work. He agreed to my terms but now, in the middle of work, he refuses to pay me. What should I do?
The Singapore Employment Act is the legal framework that defines the rules and regulations about employment contracts, benefits, and wages involved in hiring employees in Singapore.
If your employer refuses weekly payments as a direct violation of the contract terms, they are liable to legal action and incarceration concerning the legislation.
Compensation and benefits are paramount in employee satisfaction and ensure their long-term association with the job.
The Employment Act applies to small, medium, and large scale companies operating out of Singapore.
Employers are liable to fulfil them within seven days following the end of the salary period and overtime charges within 14 days.
As defined in the contract, the terms of employment establish the relationship and agreements between the employer and employee.
The deal is subject to amendments only if both parties agree to the modifications.
Solutions:
A breach of contract is when the employer or employee violates one or more terms, as mentioned.
For late payment or refusal to pay, as an employee, you can –
- Clarify the matter with your employer
It is essential to understand the situation before considering any legal action against your employer.
In the case of unique circumstances, you can agree to a new schedule for payment of salaries and finalize the regularization of prices.
- File a claim with TADM or the Trade Union
If the employer has no reasonable grounds for unwarranted refusal or delay, you can approach the Tripartite Alliance for Dispute Management(TADM).
You are eligible to claim up to $20,000. If you are an active union member, your claims may rise to $30,000, following mediation with unions recognized by the Industry Relations Act.
The TADM resolves cases through mediation and assistance. They also support low-income workers with short-term financial help if they cannot pay the salary due to business problems.
The case closes following an agreement between both parties at the District Court
with four weeks.
- File a claim with the ECT
The Employment Claims Tribunal takes up a case through referrals issued by the TADM if mediation is impossible.
You can file a claim with the ECT through the Justice and Tribunals System within four weeks following the referral certificate.
The tribunal evaluates your cases based on the claim’s nature, monetary value, and supporting documents.
Claims within $10,000 require a $30 charge payment and $60 for claim amounts exceeding the threshold.
Failure to comply with the ECT order invites contempt and prosecution in court.
For further assistance on the procedures and understanding the law, fill-up the form on our website and get in touch with expert solicitors and legal advisors.