Yazzoo

I am a contract pilot for a Part 91 company that will remain unnamed. I am relatively new at the company.
I have heard rumors from other pilots about not getting paid, and just recently felt the sting myself. I did not receive my first paycheck, which was for a large sum, but I did receive my second one, which was for less money.
I talked to my boss about this and was political, and he re-sent my payment information to accounting and said I should get paid soon.
However, another pilot was telling me how the company owes him at least $18,000; an FBO over $40K; etc. HUGE red flag.
Should I jump ship before they owe me any more money? Is legal action an option at any point for those who the company is indebted to?
I build time quickly here and will reach 135/ATP mins before the end of the year, but I need the money (pay is decent) and don't want to be treated like this. Any advice is welcome. Thanks!

Grumble

Take whatever check you get, and cash it. Then deposit the cash.

Speaking from personal experience, having an employers paycheck bounce out of your account causes all kids of problems when your bill payments start bouncing as well.

floydbird

Accounting errors and mistakes happen at every company. Give them a reasonable chance to make it right like you would do for most any company that you do business with, either as a customer or contractor.

An honest, straight-forward company acting in good faith will make good and pay their bills in a timely manner.

If they are paying you, continue the relationship. If they stop paying you, or selectively pay you, end the relationship.

And yes, legal action is an option if a company is not paying their debts. Make sure, of course, that you keep good paperwork/accurate records.

Yazzoo

Absolutely. I'm just worried that this is the start of a trend that will end up resulting in thousands of unpaid dollars...I have been saving all my paperwork and receipts.

rickair7777

Since you just started maybe it was a legit mistake...but it sounds like they make a habit of it. If they do it again, try to collect what you can then bail as quickly as you can.

vagabond

In Washington State, it is illegal to not pay an employee for work performed, and any employer who does that should be reported to the Department of Labor and Industries.

TheFly

+1....without delay. Companies like that will most likely end up like a once popular helicopter flight school that vanished into thin air and left a lot of people high and dry.

A hint to the wise is sufficient.

JamesNoBrakes

Number one is get a pre-paid legal service for any and everything that might require it. It's cheap and one of the best things you can do.