Appendix III Template letters to employers
2. Formal letter before action from rep or union
Subject: Formal request for repayment of wages – letter before action Dear.............................. [ Employer ],
We are writing to you on behalf of [ Worker’ s name ], who we represent in relation to concerns over underpayment and unlawful deductions from wages.
Our review of payslips, bank statements and work records indicates:
• The worker has been paid below the legal minimum as set out in the National Minimum Wage Act 1998
• Deductions may have been made without lawful authority, breaching Section 13 of the Employment Rights Act 1996
• Pay has not been provided for travel between jobs, training or standby hours
We are formally requesting that: 1. A full audit of pay and deductions be provided 2. Any underpaid wages be repaid within 14 days
3. The employer confirms steps taken to ensure future compliance with pay legislation
If we do not receive a satisfactory response within this timeframe, we reserve the right to assist the worker in submitting a complaint to HMRC or pursuing a tribunal claim.
We would prefer to resolve this cooperatively and without escalation, and we hope to receive a constructive response.
Yours faithfully,.............................. [ Rep’ s name ].............................. [ Union or organisation ].............................. [ Contact details ]
94 LRD • Supporting migrant workers