Farm Labor Contractor Practice Test

Which of the following describes the condition under which an employer can make wage deductions?

1. General consent from the employee

2. Specific written permission from the employee

3. Employer discretion

4. State law mandates

The correct answer is: Specific written permission from the employee

The correct answer—specific written permission from the employee—highlights the principles of wage deductions under employment law. For an employer to make deductions from an employee's wages, clear and explicit consent is typically required to protect employees' rights. This means that the employee must be fully informed about what they are consenting to, ensuring that the deduction is fair and agreed upon. Written permission serves as a formal record that both parties acknowledge and accept the terms of the deduction. While general consent or an employer's discretion may imply some understanding or agreement, they do not provide the formal protections and clarity that specific written permission offers. Additionally, state laws can dictate and vary the requirements for wage deductions, but these laws often back the necessity of obtaining specific written consent when establishing the terms. Thus, the answer underscores the legal framework that safeguards employees in the context of wage deductions.