Your Work Rights Guide
Get the support, information, and tools you need to stay safe at work. Your rights matter, and we're here to help you understand them.
Know your rights at work in plain language.
A youth-friendly guide to workplace rights, including pay, safety, harassment, and what to do if something goes wrong. Rules vary by state.
Quick Check
Are you under 18?
Do you feel unsafe at work?
Are you missing pay or hours?
Have you experienced harassment?
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Finding Help
You're not alone. These organizations can help if something doesn't feel right at work.
Youth & Community Organizations
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Legal aid clinics
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Worker centers
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Youth advocacy groups
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School counselors and educators
Immigration-Aware Help
Immigration status does not affect labor rights. These organizations help without asking about status:
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National Immigration Law Center
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United We Dream
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Worker Justice Centers
Everything teen workers need to know about staying safe
If Something Feels Wrong
Trust your instincts. If your job feels unsafe or unfair, follow these steps.
Document What’s Happening
Write things down as soon as possible. This helps protect you if you need to report the issue.
• Dates and times of incidents
• What happened and who was involved
• Photos of schedules, equipment, or pay records (if safe)
• Save pay stubs and time records
Talk to Someone You Trust
You do not have to handle this alone.
• Parent or guardian
• School counselor or teacher
• Older sibling or trusted adult
• Legal aid or youth worker organization
Stop Working if it's Unsafe
You have the legal right to refuse dangerous or illegal work.
• Hazardous equipment or prohibited tasks
• Unsafe conditions or threats
• Unpaid work or extreme hours
• Work that harms your health
Report if Necessary - Even Anonymously
You can report labor violations without giving your name.
• Call the U.S. Department of Labor: 1-866-487-9243
• Submit a complaint online at dol.gov
• Focus on the employer’s actions, not your identity
Understand the Law
Ages 14–15: No. Federal law limits work to 7pm during the school year.
Ages 16–17: Federal law allows later hours, but many states restrict them.
No. Power-driven equipment is prohibited for anyone under 18.
Ages 14–15: No. Federal limit is 18 hours per week.
Ages 16–17: Federal law allows it, but states may limit hours.
Most states require work permits for minors, confirming age, school approval, and parental consent.
Typically no. Federal minimum wage is $7.25/hour, and many states require more.
Only for legal deductions like taxes. Employers cannot deduct for mistakes, uniforms, or damages.
Know your rights at work in plain language. Rules vary by state.
Tools for Teens
Download and save these tools to help you stay safe, informed, and prepared at work.
Wallet Card of Rights
Pocket-sized card with your basic rights, work hour limits, and emergency numbers. Keep it in your wallet.
"Speaking Up Safely at Work"
Complete guide on how to talk to your boss about problems, when to involve parents, and how to report anonymously.
Scripts for Employers
Word-for-word scripts for common situations: saying no to unsafe work, asking about your schedule, requesting breaks.
New Job Checklist
What to check before accepting a job: work permit requirements, safety training, pay rate verification, and more.
Timesheet Tracker
Keep your own record of hours worked. Essential if your employer isn't paying you correctly.
How to Talk to Parents
Guide for having conversations with parents about work problems, even if they encouraged you to take the job.