How to File a Complaint

If you think that your employee or employer has broken the Labour Standards Code, contact us. Our officers will give you information that can help you decide whether or not to file a complaint. To file a complaint, complete the following steps.

1. Get a Complaint Form

You can get a form in one of two ways:

• Pick up a form from one of our offices. We have offices in Halifax and Sydney. Our addresses are on the back of this pamphlet.
• Phone our office to request a Complaint Form. We will mail the form to you. Phone numbers are on the back of this pamphlet. You can reach us at 1-888-315-0110 (Toll Free) or 424-4311 (within Halifax calling area).

2. Complete the form

Once you get the form, complete all information, including the following:

• Describe your complaint. Include what happened, when it happened, why it happened, and who was involved. Give the names of any others who can support your claim.
• State the amount claimed, if you are claiming money. Give the dollar amount that you are claiming and the dates that are involved.
  Example: 2 weeks' pay instead of notice:
  October 6, 2003-October 10, 2003 $300.00
  October 13, 2003-October 17, 2003 + $300.00
  Total $600.00
• Sign the form. You must sign the form, certifying that the information is correct.
• Initial the form to show you understand that the information will be shared. Our officers will need to talk to both parties. We will share information we collect with both parties.

3. Return the form to Labour Standards

We must receive your Complaint Form within 6 months of the incident happening.

Complaint Filing Tips

Always keep documents such as pay stubs, cheques, work schedules, letters of termination, employment contracts, and other records.

Give us as much information as you can. This helps our officers when they look into your complaint.

When you attach documents, give us copies only. Do not give us originals.

File your complaint in plenty of time. Remember, we must receive your complaint no later than 6 months after the incident happened.

In some cases you can make an anonymous complaint. If you think you have a reason for keeping your identity unknown, talk to us about it. We can explain what we can and cannot do without your name.