Can my employer stop me from telling people my current rate of pay?

Question

I live in Duluth, MN USA. Please state the law/rule/ordience if you find one thank you.

Why? I don't care for your opinions, I just want fact. Lets say this person didn't sign anything limited them not talking about it.

I do understand it is not professional, but in some case there is a need to know if one is getting paid equal wages for equal work.

Anyways, I need law, facts, no speculation.

Answer 1

It's VERY normal that ONE worker get MORe than another, from different education levels and experience. That's why you should never express your rate of pay to your cohorts. They may not understand why. You may not understand why they get more, OR less, than YOU!
There are laws of ethical conduct on the job. Things you can say, and cannot say.
See: http://www.osha.gov/as/opa/worker/index.html

Answer 2

If you work in a bank it is common practice. I worked at a bank in MPLS., and didn't know at the time who could answer that question for me. When I started working for the DNR I talked to one of our attorneys and he knew of no such practice going on and said that it was rediculous. His only comment was that things like that do happen in a none union shop where they pay workers lower wages then union employees. A bank or banks did not have unions when I worked for them. If you work in a non-union shop they can almost tell you anything and get away with it as they can really make things worse for you enough to fire you for the simplest reasons. I didn't really care one way or the other when I was told not to discuss my wages with others but when I was given a meager raise my thoughts changed quick and I found another job. I had fun my last two weeks though. I discussed how well off we would be if we brought unions into the banking business with my fellow workers. It drove the managers up a wall. Use your own judgement on it.

Answer 3

Why would you want to tell people? If you're getting more than others, they're gonna get mad at you, or go complain to the boss.
And, in the long run, your boss can keep from giving you 'extra' future raises by saying that you caused too many problems.
And, on the other hand, if you're not making as much as others,
you're gonna be the one getting mad and your coworkers aren't really gonna give a damn, even though they appear that they do.
Rule of thumb, if the boss says not to do something, then, don't do it. He can call you insubordinate and look for some other reason to get rid of you just in case the insubordination doesn't seem like a sure thing.

Answer 4

Check your company's employee handbook. They may have guidelines that apply to discussion of wages/salaries. Many companies frown on this and often it's against their policy. And yes, you can be fired for insubordination and disruption of the workplace.

Try investigating the wages offered at similar companies or work settings. Usually, similar jobs within in your local area pay a similar wage . Good luck with your research.

Answer 5

Only if they have some kind of clause in a written contract that you signed since you've been employed by them. Other than that, you have the freedom to tell anyone.

But if it is looked down on and you are just upsetting your employer, you might find yourself looking for another job. They may feel that they cannot trust you.

Answer 6

Yes. It is confidential information and I m sure you signed something on your first day of work. Why would you want anyone knowing your current rate of pay. It just causes hard feelings in the office or work area. Share the information with those that you love. Plus if it upsets your boss don't do it.

Answer 7

You mean as in other employees? I don't see how they can stop you. They do frown on it though. So if you want to make your employer frown, in the future your coworkers will be laughing at you behind their back. LOL.....can you believe that fool is working for that pittance. Most company's' have Low-Mid-High ranges of salaries. Where do you wish to be? Keep blabbing and making your employer frown and you will find out......I can bet you it won't be mid or high range.

Answer 8

No, they can't stop you from telling people your current rate of pay, but they can fire your butt for doing what they asked you not to do. Most companies don't pay their employees the same because of work quality and quantitiy. You should probably just zip your lip and quit telling people what you make.

Answer 9

Did you sign an employment contract? Or were you hired on exempt/non-exempt status? What were the terms of your hiring? Did you sign a non-disclosure agreement?

There are so many things that would require more explanation.

Answer 10

Unlikely there is an actual law. But the employer has a right to enact policy. If you don't follow the policy, he can end your employment.