Withholding Gratis Post Employment

Summary

The user, a former employee of Sephora at Kohls in Virginia, is facing an issue with the company withholding gratis makeup products. The user is unsure if these products were part of their agreed compensation or a perk. The user has reported the issue to HR, who responded that it was company policy to withhold gratis after termination. The user is advised to consult with a labor attorney in Virginia for specific advice.

Full Conversation

a former employer withholding gratis
What state are you located in, Sky? This will help me provide the most accurate information regarding labor laws in your area.
virginia
What kind of gratis is being withheld by your former employer? In Virginia, employers are generally required to pay all earned wages to employees promptly.
makeup products
Are these makeup products part of your agreed compensation or benefits? In Virginia, employers are required to pay all agreed compensation, including non-monetary benefits.
im not sure
If you're unsure, it's important to review your employment contract or any written agreements you had with your employer about compensation.
what if it is?
If the makeup products are part of your agreed compensation, your former employer is legally obligated to provide them. If they refuse, you may have grounds for a legal claim.
what if its just a perk?
If it's just a perk and not part of your agreed compensation, it might not be legally enforceable. However, it's best to consult with a labor attorney in Virginia for specific advice.
what if it is a policy to withhold but I was never informed of this policy
What is the exact wording of the policy? It's important to know if it explicitly states that gratis can be withheld after termination.
im not sure I cant access it
Do you have any other documents or emails that might mention this policy? It's important to gather all possible evidence.
no I do not and I have looked
What was your position and what were your responsibilities at this company? This could help determine if the makeup products were part of your compensation.
sales lead beauty advisor
What were the terms of your employment regarding benefits and perks? It's important to understand if the makeup products were part of your compensation or just a perk.
just my base rate
What does "just my base rate" mean in terms of your compensation package?
hourly pay
What was your hourly rate and were there any other benefits or perks mentioned in your employment contract besides the makeup products?
$* and no
Did you have any verbal agreement with your employer about receiving these makeup products?
yes while employed
Did your employer explicitly state that you would continue receiving these makeup products even after your employment ended?
no
Did you receive these makeup products regularly during your employment?
yes
What was the frequency and quantity of the makeup products you received during your employment?
once a month
What was the approximate value of the makeup products you received each month?
$*
What was the last date you received these makeup products from your employer?
sometime in august
What was the date of your employment termination?
i am still employed
Are you still employed with the same company that is withholding the makeup products?
yes
What is the reason given by your employer for withholding the makeup products?
that its policy but I fear they are trying to take it for themselves
What steps have you taken so far to address this issue with your employer?
HR & a report
What was the response from HR regarding your report?
that it was policy
What is the policy that HR referred to? Can you provide more details about it?
that they can withold gratis after termination
What is the name and contact details of your employer? This information can help in understanding the company's policies better.
sephora at kohls
What is the exact location of your Sephora at Kohl's workplace?