Do temp agencies have the right to take half your paycheck?

Answer 1

The temp agency I worked for a few years back was the one who issued me my paycheck. Obviously the company where I actually did the work paid the temp service more than I received, that's how they make money.
Like any employer, the temp agency is required by law to withold federal and state income taxes, social security, etc. as well.

Answer 2

I've worked for temp agencies before and never had that happen.
Why would they do that? There's more to the story and since you didn't give any details on the situation, it would be difficult to give a best answer.

TAs don't charge fees to the employee, they charge the prospecting company. As a temp, your pay will always be lower than if you got the job by applying directly to the company.
And yes, they are required to take out taxes. But 1/2 your check for taxes?? Wow!

Answer 3

Depends on the agreement between you, the temp agency, and the employer. Generally, the employer pays the temp agency's fee and the employee keeps 100% of their pay.

Answer 4

If you signed an agreement allowing them to take a certain percentage, then yes they do.

I was a Kelly Girl (a temporary service) many years ago. I got a job that was paying $2.80 an hour, not a bad wage back then (in the 70's) for a young girl; but I found out that Kelly Girl was charging the company I worked for $5.25 an hour for my services. I was shocked to say the least, but I had signed a contract and that is what they charged for me.

Answer 5

How do you reckon that they're taking half of your paycheck? You must be extremely well paid indeed if they're withholding half of your pay for taxes.

Answer 6

Absolutely Not! Report them to your Local State Department of Labor.