Unlawful deduction from wages solicitors in London

Getting paid correctly is one of the most basic rights you have at work. Yet many employees in London experience situations where wages are withheld or deductions are made without lawful reason. If this has happened to you, you may be entitled to make an unlawful deduction from wages claim in London to recover your money.

In this page, we explain what counts as an unlawful deduction from wages, give examples of common scenarios, outline how to make a claim, and show how our team of London-based solicitors can help you recover what you are owed.

See also our Guide on breaches of contract for practical guidance on what to do in case of unlawful deduction from wages which breach your employment contract.

Monaco Solicitors – specialist solicitors in London for unlawful deduction from wages claims

At Monaco Solicitors, we practise exclusively in employment law and act only for employees and workers – not employers. Our unlawful deduction from wages solicitors in London have helped many clients to recover pay that was withheld without lawful justification.

We know how disruptive it can be when your wages are reduced unfairly or not paid in full. Whether the issue concerns deductions for uniforms, training, or alleged errors at work, we provide clear, practical advice and skilled negotiation to safeguard your rights.

 

What is an unlawful deduction from wages?

A deduction may be unlawful if your employer takes money from your wages, but doesn’t have one of the following:

• Legal authority (for example, your employer does have legal authority to deduct tax or National Insurance contributions, whether you like it or not).
• Express permission in your employment contract.
• Your prior written agreement.

The law also protects you if your employer fails to pay your wages in full or on time.

Examples of unlawful wage deductions in London workplaces

Across London, workers commonly face issues such as:

• Deducting money for a till shortage without your written agreement.
• Charging you for uniforms, safety equipment, or training that was not contractually agreed.
• Withholding part of your wages as punishment for alleged misconduct.
• Not paying overtime, commission, or holiday pay you have earned.
• Failing to pay your final wages when you leave your employment.

If any of these apply to you, you may be entitled to recover sums through an unlawful deduction from wages claim.

How to claim for wage deductions in London

If you think you have suffered an unlawful deduction, the steps in the process that you’ll need to take will be along the following lines:

Raise the matter informally with your employer: Request a written explanation from your employer.

Submit a formal grievance: Use your employer’s formal grievance procedure if the problem is not resolved.

Seek legal advice: Our London-based unlawful deduction from wages solicitors can confirm whether the deduction was lawful and advise on your options. These may include:

• Starting negotiations for an out of court settlement and settlement agreement
• Starting an employment tribunal claim if  your employer isn’t prepared to negotiate or in case a settlement isn’t reached.

Time limits for starting tribunal claims: These are very strict – usually three months less one day from the deduction (or the last in a series). At the time of writing, a tribunal can generally only consider deductions going back two years from the date your claim begins.

Employment tribunals or settlements for claims about unlawful deductions of wages in London?

At Monaco Solicitors, we are experts at negotiating settlements so that clients can recover their wages without having to appear at a tribunal hearing. So we would always start by attempting to negotiate with your employer.

That said, in many cases we advise clients to start a tribunal claim alongside our negotiations. This preserves your right to bring the case forward if required, and often encourages your employer to negotiate more seriously.

While we do not provide representation at tribunal hearings, our London team can:

• Assist with preparing and drafting your claim form (ET1).
• Give you guidance on how to get ready for tribunal if negotiations fail.
• Continue negotiating with your employer while proceedings are underway.

 

How our London solicitors can help you recover what you’re owed

At Monaco Solicitors, our expert London-based team can:

• Analyse your payslips, contract, and communications to identify unlawful deductions.
• Negotiate firmly with your employer to recover the money owed.
• Support you with the tribunal claim process by giving you practical guidance on how to prepare the necessary documentation.

We recognise that withheld wages can create both financial and emotional pressure. Our goal is to secure repayment quickly and effectively while keeping stress to a minimum.

If you’ve got an issue relating to the unlawful deduction of your wages, get in touch:

Complete our short online form
Email: communications@monacosolicitors.co.uk
Phone: 020 7717 5259

 

FAQs about unlawful deductions from wages in London

Can an employer in London legally deduct money from my wages without my permission?

Generally no. Unless the deduction is required by law, written into your contract, or agreed in writing, it is likely to be unlawful.

My London-based employer paid my wages late. Is this considered an unlawful deduction?

Late payment may amount to withholding wages and could be treated as an unlawful deduction, as well as a breach of contract, depending on the circumstances.

I work in a London retail store, and my manager deducted money for a till shortage. Is there a limit on how much they can take?

Yes. Even where a contract permits deductions, they must be proportionate and reasonable. Without such a clause or your consent, the deduction is likely unlawful.

What is the first step I should take if my wages have been unlawfully deducted by my London employer?

Ask your employer for an explanation in writing. If this does not resolve matters, seek legal advice quickly, as tribunal deadlines are short.

Get in touch with Monaco Solicitors

Monaco Solicitors are a reputable employment law solicitors firm, based in London, but acting nationwide. We specialise in employment law and only represent employees – not employers.

Our expert unlawful deduction from wages lawyers in London are here to help you, so if you’ve got an issue relating to deductions in your pay, contact us today:

Online via our Case Details form
Email: communications@monacosolicitors.co.uk
Phone: 020 7717 5259