What can I do if my employer is not paying me the agreed rates?

Lexi, Chatbot

I am a 1099 contractor with J.B. Hunt, and they are not paying the agreed rates. How do I get them to pay me what’s owed?

Lexi, Chatbot

Can you provide more details about the agreed rates and any written agreements you have in place with J.B. Hunt regarding your compensation?

Lexi, Chatbot

Is there anything else the employment lawyer should know before I connect you? Rest assured they’ll be able to help with contract payment adjustments.

Brandon

Hi there, and welcome to AskALawyer. My name is Brandon, and I’m an attorney. I’ll be happy to help you out today.

Please note that this discussion is for guidance only and does not create an attorney-client relationship. My answers and comments should not be considered legal advice.

Let’s break this down so you know how to move forward.

Brandon

1. Start With the Contract Language

You mentioned that the contract allows J.B. Hunt to adjust the pay. That clause is likely what they’re using to justify the changes — but that doesn’t mean they have unlimited power to alter rates after you’ve accepted a load.

Look closely for:

• Language about rate changes: Does it specify when and how adjustments can be made?
• Load confirmation terms: If you have a signed load confirmation sheet (even via email or dispatch message) confirming a rate, and they change it later without your consent, that’s a major issue.
• Dispute resolution clause: Check if you’re required to mediate, arbitrate, or file in court — this affects how you escalate the issue.

2. Document Everything

From now on, track every load and agreed rate at the time you accept it. Save:

• Load board screenshots
• Rate confirmation emails or texts
• Dispatch communications
• Proof of delivery and bills of lading (BOLs)
• Any records of rate changes made after pickup

This paper trail is essential. J.B. Hunt is a large company, and without solid evidence, they can easily deflect or deny your claim.

3. Challenge the Rate Reductions Directly

Contact your driver manager, broker, or dispatch contact and clearly — but professionally — explain:

• You accepted Load [number] at $X rate.
• The rate was later reduced without your consent.
• You expect to be paid at the original confirmed rate.
• If they push back, ask them to point to the specific contract clause allowing them to change pay after the load was accepted and picked up.
• If their clause only covers future rate postings, not retroactive changes, you have grounds to dispute.

4. Escalate in Writing

If internal discussions go nowhere, send a formal demand letter to J.B. Hunt’s Accounts Receivable or Contractor Relations Department.

Include:

• A summary of what happened
• Documentation supporting your claim
• The correct payment amount owed
• A payment deadline (usually 10–14 days)

Keep it polite but firm. This letter signals you’re serious and legally aware.

If you’d like, I can help you draft this letter — just say the word.

5. Consider Filing a Complaint or Legal Action

If they still refuse to pay:

• File a complaint with the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) if you believe they’re violating fair freight practices.
• Consider small claims court if the amount owed is under your state’s limit (usually $5,000–$10,000).
• If this is happening frequently — or to other contractors — you might look into a class action or consult a transportation attorney familiar with independent contractor disputes.

6. Look Into Industry Support

Groups like OOIDA (Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association) help drivers fight for fair pay. They can sometimes provide legal support or resources tailored to truckers dealing with major carriers.