**UPS Accused of Wage Theft from Seasonal Workers During Holidays**
New York Attorney General Letitia James has filed a lawsuit against UPS, alleging that the company unlawfully withheld tens of millions of dollars in wages from seasonal workers during the holiday season. The lawsuit, submitted in Manhattan’s state court, claims that UPS consistently failed to compensate driver helpers and seasonal support drivers properly. These workers, who assist with package deliveries, reportedly faced issues such as being required to clock in after their shifts had begun and having pay deducted for lunch breaks they did not take.
According to James, over the past six years, UPS has deprived tens of thousands of seasonal employees of approximately $45 million in wages. The lawsuit seeks not only back pay and penalties but also a court order mandating UPS to cease off-the-clock work practices and to revise its timekeeping and payroll systems. Last year, UPS, known for its iconic brown trucks and uniforms, delivered an average of 22.4 million packages daily and generated $91.1 billion in revenue.
At a news conference announcing the lawsuit, James emphasized the often-overlooked struggles of these workers, stating, “We oftentimes don’t think of these workers when we’re opening up our gifts for the holidays. And these individuals are struggling each and every day to make ends meet.”
In response, UPS, headquartered in Georgia, acknowledged the lawsuit and stated that it takes all allegations of wrongdoing seriously, denying any claims of intentionally underpaying its employees. The company asserted that it provides industry-leading pay and benefits to its more than 26,000 employees in New York and is committed to adhering to all applicable laws.
James initiated the investigation into UPS in 2023 after concerns were raised by the Teamsters Local 804 union regarding the treatment of seasonal workers, who are typically employed from October to January. Josh Pomeranz, the union’s director of operations, noted that while there is no evidence that top management was directly involved in or aware of the alleged wage theft, the practices in question are ones that require willful ignorance to overlook.
As the case unfolds, it highlights the ongoing challenges faced by seasonal workers in the logistics industry, particularly during peak periods like the holiday season.
**FAQ**
**What is the lawsuit against UPS about?**
The lawsuit alleges that UPS unlawfully withheld wages from seasonal workers, requiring them to clock in late and deducting pay for breaks they did not take.
