The DOL’s Payroll Audit Independent Determination (PAID) is a pilot program implemented in March, which allows employers to self-report any overtime or minimum wage violations discovered as a result of a self-audit and work with the DOL’s Wage and Hour Division (WHD) to address these violations. PAID was extended for an additional six months on Oct. 9, so employers interested in the program can participate through April 2019.

Benefits:

  • Employers accepted into the program can avoid the liquidated damages provision of the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) which typically will attach to claims made by employees, or as part of DOL investigations;
  • Generally, if the WHD finds other violations, those will be addressed as part of the PAID program; and
  • Employers who resolve violations through PAID avoid having to pay attorney fees for the employees, and generally save on their own legal expenses.