Illegal Deductions

The Division of Labor Standards ensures employers in New York State do not make illegal deductions from workers’ wages.

This includes deductions for:

• Breakages
• Cash shortages
• Fines
• Losses to the business
• Deductions not listed in Section 193 of the Labor Law
• Charges for check replacement
• Overcharges for paid family leave premiums

Some deductions from wages, such as taxes or insurance premiums, are legal. Deductions from wages for pay advances or overpayments are only legal if they are made in accordance with Part 195.