It is not uncommon for employers to abuse employees by not paying them for the number of hours actually worked. Sometimes this abuse is subtle. For example, a restaurant might demand that an employee attend a training or meeting and require them to also work an eight-hour shift, without acknowledging or paying for the training or meeting time. Similarly, you may be required to be on standby at a job, or travel to a work site. You must be paid for this additional time, even if you are not completing your ordinary tasks during that time.If you are not being paid for all your work hours, you may feel uncomfortable about asserting your rights because you fear losing your job. However, there are federal and state wage and hour laws in place to protect you, including the federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). Under FLSA, if you are an hourly worker, your employer must pay you at least the minimum wage. The exact minimum wage in effect depends on your state. Your employer is not allowed to dock your wage below minimum wage or withhold your final paycheck.If your employer does not follow the wage and hour laws, you may be able to bring a wage and hour dispute. Employers usually have greater resources at their disposal, including lawyers. Therefore, once you realize you might have a claim, you should consult an attorney right away.