I was unexpectedly laid off on Friday, as the housing market continues to sink, but have not recieved a monthly bonus check since May. I have hit all of my target numbers for each month employed, and my bonus plan is clearly spelled out in the offer letter that I still have.
It was not uncommon for the company to go 3-6 months without paying monthly bonus just to pay it all at once later. I had been actively seeking these past few months of bonus money from my boss for the past month, ... and then on Friday I was let go. Other peers are keeping quiet about not getting bonus money, for fear of being laid off as the company tries to downsize.

Is there a way to collect this money, without having to pay a lawyer?

Any help is appreciated.
Sam

Have you asked the company if the bonus will be paid on time? You can always check the rules in your area with the state labor department. However, I do suggest you try to speak to an attorney regarding your legal options in the even the bonus is not paid. You can find more information about an attorney through the attorney locator service on LawInfo's home page at: http://www.lawinfo.com/. Some do offer free consultations.

I have asked and have not gotten a clear answer. The owner reviews the bonuses and someone other than the owner gave me the news on Friday. The owner does not answer my phone calls, nor return my messages; the other person said he would ask for me ... no response.

On the DOL website, it states that all income earned must be repaid .... eventually, BUT it says that a salesman commission is not protected by law. I wonder where "bonus" monies are included. It would be my thoughts that they are protected, and very different than commissions.

Any thoughts?

Hmm. I'm not sure about how bonus money would be considered. It may depend on state law - either in statutes or through prior case law interpreting bonus money. Other things that could play a role include whether there is any contractual provision about it, whether the employer is paying others their bonus money, or other matters. Good luck!

Some attorneys do offer free consutlations. You can always ask an attorney during your initial call whether they offer them. You can find more information about an attorney through the locator service on LawInfo's home page at: http://www.lawinfo.com/.