Shedding Light on Unclaimed Back Wages: Industries and Companies Contributing to the Problem

Jacob Greene
Published Apr 23, 2025


The issue of unclaimed back wages continues to plague American workers, with thousands of individuals going unpaid for hours they have worked. Despite efforts by the Department of Labor to recover these wages, a substantial amount of money remains uncollected.

By examining the top companies and professions known for their involvement in wage theft, we can shed light on this ongoing problem and call for greater accountability.

The Workers Owed Wages website serves as a vital resource for workers looking to determine if they are owed back pay.


Food Service: A Major Offender

The Food Service industry has emerged as a significant contributor to the problem of unclaimed back wages. The industry alone has left over 36,000 workers unpaid, despite having collected the wages owed from their employers.


Healthcare: Failing to Prioritize Workers' Rights

Another industry with a notable presence in unclaimed back wages is healthcare. As one of the largest employers in the country, the healthcare sector has a responsibility to ensure fair treatment and just compensation for its workers.

Regrettably, companies such as U.S. Medical Staffing Inc., which owes over $2.7 million to 1,275 current or former employees, have come under scrutiny for systematically denying workers their rightful compensation.

Additionaly, companies like Alorica, which owes over $970,000 to 1,135 employees, and Clean Harbors Environmental Services Inc., with over $1.6 million in unclaimed back pay collected from 2,833 employees, have been identified as major culprits in wage theft.


Construction: Skirting Labor Laws

The construction industry, known for its demanding physical labor and long work hours, has also demonstrated a pattern of wage theft.

Stratis Construction Inc. is listed as owing over $400,000 in back pay to numerous workers. This example highlights the vulnerability of those working in physically demanding professions who often face an uphill battle to claim what they are owed.


Workers Owed Wages: Empowering Employees

Amidst the struggle to reclaim unpaid wages, the Workers Owed Wages website serves as a crucial tool for affected workers.

This online platform allows individuals to check if their current or former employers are listed and determine if they are owed money. It also provides guidance on documentation requirements for proving employment to support back wage claims.

By visiting the Workers Owed Wages website, workers can take the necessary steps towards reclaiming what rightfully belongs to them.


Conclusion: Advocating for Fair Compensation

Unclaimed back wages remain a persistent issue affecting numerous industries and workers across America. Companies in the food service, healthcare, and construction sectors are among the top contributors to this problem.

While it is important to hold companies accountable, workers must also be proactive in asserting their rights. The Workers Owed Wages website serves as a valuable resource, empowering individuals to reclaim their unpaid wages.

By raising awareness and advocating for fair compensation, we can work towards a future where wage theft is eradicated, and workers receive the full remuneration they deserve.

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