Tracking Your Hours: Take Control and Protect What You’ve Earned 

If you’re not tracking your hours, you’re leaving your paycheck—and your rights—vulnerable. Employers who engage in wage theft count on one thing: a lack of evidence. Without proper records, it’s their word against yours. That’s why keeping detailed, accurate records is one of the most powerful steps you can take to protect yourself and support your claim. 

The Rochester employment lawyers at Horn Wright, LLP, have helped countless workers reclaim their stolen wages by building airtight cases rooted in strong documentation. Let one of the best law firms in America show you how to do the same and take control of your time, your effort, and your hard-earned money. 

Why Recordkeeping Matters: Evidence Is Power 

Your employer may try to dismiss your claim or argue that you didn’t work the hours you’re owed. The best way to shut that down? Solid proof. Keeping detailed records is often the difference between recovering your unpaid wages and walking away empty-handed. 

Here’s the reality: even when employers are blatantly breaking overtime laws, they rarely admit fault. Instead, they’ll: 

• deny wrongdoing 
• argue that their timekeeping system is accurate, or 
• shift blame onto you. 

When you have detailed logs, pay stubs, and messages proving your case, you leave no room for doubt. Accurate recordkeeping isn’t just about getting justice, it’s also about reclaiming the respect and compensation you deserve. The Rochester lawyers at Horn Wright, LLP, know this and are ready to fight to get you justice. 

What to Track: Don’t Let a Single Minute Slip Away 

Every hour you work is money in your pocket—if your employer plays fair. But when they don’t, it’s up to you to document the time they’re trying to erase. Here’s what to keep track of: 

Daily Hours Worked 

Log your start time, end time, and any breaks you take during the day. If you’re asked to clock out early or stay late, make a note of it. These details can show when your actual hours don’t match the hours your employer recorded. 

Off-the-Clock Tasks 

Tasks outside your scheduled hours—like answering emails, attending meetings, or prepping before a shift—are often overlooked. But they’re still work, and you’re entitled to be paid for them. Keep a separate log of these tasks, including the date, time, and what you were asked to do. 

Pay Stubs and Communications 

Pay stubs tell a story. Review them for inconsistencies, missing overtime pay, or unexplained deductions. Pair them with emails, text messages, or memos about work hours or overtime. These records can prove when your employer knew about extra hours but failed to pay. 

Best Practices for Documentation: Get Organized, Stay Protected 

Tracking your hours doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right tools and habits, you can create a foolproof system that protects you and your wages. 

Use Digital Tools 

Apps and spreadsheets are game-changers when it comes to tracking your hours. Tools like time-tracking apps can automatically log your work hours, while spreadsheets let you customize your records. Whichever method you choose, make sure it’s something you’ll stick to. 

Save Everything 

Emails, text messages, and memos from your employer can be critical to your case. If your boss sends you an after-hours email asking for “a quick task,” save it. If you receive a memo outlining unpaid responsibilities, document it. Keep backups of all communications, just in case they mysteriously “disappear.” 

Create a Timeline 

When you start tracking your hours, create a timeline that shows when violations began. Pair it with your pay stubs and task logs to paint a clear picture of how much money you’re owed. An organized timeline can make your claim stronger and easier to present. 

Take Charge of Your Time: Build Your Case, Reclaim Your Wages 

Employers who engage in wage theft rely on workers feeling powerless—but you’re far from powerless. Keeping detailed records gives you the leverage you need to fight back. It’s about more than just money—it’s about standing up for your time, effort, and rights. 

If your employer is shortchanging you, the Rochester labor attorneys at Horn Wright, LLP is here to help.  

Contact us today for a free consultation, and let’s build a case together to reclaim what’s yours.