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Employer just cutting your pay? That is not how it works

Suddenly less in your account because the boss adjusted your salary? Your pay is agreed in your employment contract. The employer cannot cut it unilaterally: for that they need either your consent or a notice of amendment.

Reach your next steps and the matching ready-made texts in just a few minutes, free of charge:

Object to the cut

Your chances of getting your money back

The agreed salary is binding. A unilateral cut is invalid: the employer can only reduce the pay with your consent (amendment agreement) or through a notice of amendment, which in turn is subject to dismissal protection.
React actively: do not simply keep working at the reduced pay in silence, but object, otherwise it could be interpreted as consent. You can reclaim the difference.

What you should do now

  1. 1

    1. Check the contract

    What is agreed as salary? Is there a valid discretionary or revocation reservation for allowances?

  2. 2

    2. Object in writing

    Object to the cut in writing and demand payment of the full, agreed salary.

  3. 3

    3. Reclaim the difference

    Demand the withheld difference with a deadline (mind any forfeiture periods in the contract).

  4. 4

    4. Get help

    If the employer sticks to it, a union or an employment-law advisor can help; if necessary, the labor court.

Frequently asked questions

May my employer simply cut my salary?

No. The employer cannot unilaterally lower the salary agreed in the employment contract. A cut is only possible with your consent (amendment agreement) or through a notice of amendment, which is subject to dismissal protection. A unilateral cut is invalid, and you can reclaim the difference.

What do I do if less was transferred?

Object to the cut in writing and demand the full salary as well as the outstanding difference with a deadline. Do not keep working at the reduced pay without comment, so that it is not treated as consent. Watch for contractual or collectively agreed forfeiture periods, and get support if needed.

Take action now

We put together the ready-made texts and the right places to contact for you.

General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.