Texas Unpaid Commissions Lawyer
Unpaid Bonuses Attorney
Salespeople work hard for their income, whether that means working the phones, pounding the pavement, or spending all day in the Texas heat in and out of their cars. They deserve the fruits of that labor in the form of commissions and bonuses, even if they leave for another opportunity. When this kind of injustice happens, our Texas unpaid commissions lawyer has the knowledge and experience to step in and pursue the pay you’re owed.
Aaron Johnson, our founding attorney, has over 15 years of experience focused on unpaid compensation cases and has earned a strong reputation among judges and fellow attorneys. We represent workers across Texas and nationwide in both individual and collective actions, across a wide range of industries. We handle every case on a contingency-fee basis, meaning you pay no attorney fees unless we recover compensation for you.
Call Fair Labor Law today at (888) 333-7147 or reach out online to tell us more about your problem and schedule a consultation.
Do I Have a Legal Right to Claim My Commissions or Bonuses?
Employers often use a range of incentives to reach sales goals, reward productivity, or reduce turnover. The terms “commission” and “bonus” are sometimes used interchangeably, as an employer may offer a bonus to a team if they meet certain productivity targets.
The details of the commission or bonus structure are typically outlined in an employment agreement, contract, offer letter, or commission or bonus plan. If the employer fails to fulfill their commitment, we can step in. We evaluate all relevant legal documents, including any employment agreement or commission plan, to determine both the strength of the case and the options available for enforcement under Texas law and the Texas Payday Law.
Texas law provides additional protections when employer-drafted agreements are unclear. Under the principle that ambiguous contract language is construed against the party who wrote it, vague or unclear terms in a commission or bonus plan may be interpreted in the employee’s favor. This means an employer can’t rely on poorly written language they drafted to deny payment.
Oral agreements for commissions or bonuses can also be enforceable. Texas courts have recognized implied promises to pay when evidence shows a consistent pattern of prior payments, verbal commitments made at hire, or an established course of dealing between the parties. What matters legally is whether the payment was tied to measurable performance and whether the conditions for earning it were met, not whether the promise was put in writing.
Can My Employer Refuse to Pay My Commissions After I Quit or Get Fired?
What if you did all the hard work and closed the deal, but it didn’t become official until after the date of resignation or termination? Does a company have to pay bonuses or commissions if you’re no longer employed on the payout date?
The answer depends on several factors, some of which can be nuanced. It may turn on the exact terms of your contract, offer letter, company policies, or the commission or bonus plan. For example, is there language in the contract regarding termination? A common provision states that no commissions or bonuses are due if a salesperson is terminated with cause, or that payment is conditioned on continued employment as of the date the bonus or commission is paid.
Absent language that clearly conditions payment on continued employment, Texas employees may have a right to their earned commissions or bonuses even after separation from employment. When an employer involuntarily terminates an employee, courts may also award a pro-rata share of a commission based on the work already performed before termination, depending on the terms of the commission plan.
Another common scenario involves an oral commitment that wasn’t honored. In a case like this, all is not necessarily lost. Oral agreements can be binding under Texas law. The key is evidence: pay stubs, emails, compensation histories for similarly situated workers, and other documents that show what was promised or how commissions were paid in practice.
When an employer changes commission terms or fires someone just before a payout date, that pattern can support a bad-faith or breach of contract claim. Our Texas unpaid bonuses attorney can be an invaluable asset when it comes to investigating these and other tactics employers use to avoid paying their salespeople what’s been rightfully earned. Over 15 years of experience focusing on unpaid compensation cases helps us know what questions to ask, whom to ask, and what issues need to be raised to unearth the truth.
Fair Labor Law can be reached by calling the office at (888) 333-7147 or by using our online contact form.
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"Exceptional lawyer but also a great communicator"
I had the pleasure of working with Aaron on my case at Fair Labor Law, and I couldn't be more satisfied with the experience. Aaron is not only an exceptional lawyer but also a great communicator. He is logical in his approach and takes the time to ensure you understand all the possibilities and outcomes related to your case.
From the beginning, Aaron made me feel incredibly comfortable. He truly understood the stress that my case brought and was always thoughtful in his approach. Aaron educated me thoroughly on the procedures involved and provided spot-on advice every step of the way.
If you are considering an employment lawyer, I highly recommend getting a consultation with Aaron. His expertise and supportive demeanor have my full endorsement. Thank you, Aaron, for your outstanding service and for making a challenging situation much more manageable. And thank you for winning!
- Former Client -
"I appreciated how genuine and honest Aaron was."I appreciated how genuine and honest Aaron was.- Former Client
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"Could not have had a better experience."First time having to deal with a lawyer and could not have had a better experience. Attorney Johnson was very attentive, always in good communication, and never left me with any doubt! Highly recommended. Thank you again!- Former Client
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"Supportive and detailed assistance."Fair Labor Law has been really supportive throughout the entire process. They were patient, answered all our questions with detailed information, and helped us resolve our legal issue positively. Highly recommend their services.- Former Client
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"Thank you, Mr. Aaron Johnson"Thank you, Mr. Aaron Johnson- Former Client
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"Well-educated, articulate, and compassionate."Attorney Johnson is well-educated, articulate, and compassionate. He takes the time to explain the law with your situation as the focus, allowing you to understand step by step. No games. No gimmicks. Straightforward!- Former Client
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"Mr. Johnson took time out of his day to share valuable information with me and to clearly explain the process to me."Mr. Johnson took time out of his day to share valuable information with me and to clearly explain the process to me.- Former Client
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"Best thing I could have done."Best thing I could have done.- Former Client
How Do I Claim Unpaid Bonuses & Commissions in Texas?
It’s generally a good idea to simply approach the employer and let them know of the issue with unpaid commissions and bonuses. Sometimes delayed payments are unintentional or otherwise can be resolved with minimal acrimony. Strike a respectful tone and give the company the benefit of the doubt. Solving a problem privately is more efficient than going to court.
But if the employer does not respond appropriately, then it’s time to reach out to Fair Labor Law. Our objective is still to reach an amicable settlement, but we can communicate to the employer that we are prepared to go to court if our client is not made whole.
Another option is to file a wage claim with the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC), which has the authority to investigate and order the payment of unpaid commissions or bonuses that were due within 180 days before the TWC claim was filed. Our Texas unpaid commissions lawyer can advise clients on the best path to take.
We’ll Work to Make You Whole
You worked too hard for your money to simply let the employer pocket everything without a fight. Fair Labor Law is here to advocate for people who simply want justice—being paid for the work they did. We know the process, the system, and the law, and we believe strongly in what we do. Call our office at (888) 333-7147 or contact us online today.
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SupportiveHelping his clients at every step of their case and making sure they never feel alone.
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High QualityMr. Johnson's attention to detail and commitment to his clients are the pillars of his firm.
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ReputableThroughout his career, Mr. Johnson's exceptional work has made a lasting impression and garnered an outstanding reputation with judges and clients.
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MeticulousIn every case, Mr. Johnson applies careful research and writing to ensure the best possible outcome.