Advance pay/Termination

[Ralph Ritchey]

Idaho. Terminated by employer and no reason given pertaining to my work for the company. I had outstanding draws at the time and and the president of the corporation told me that they would consider the money a consultation fee for any questions that the new bookkeeping service might have. At that point I considered the matter settled. Several weeks later I was verbally informed that I would have to pay back the advance. Then a week or so later I received a letter stating that I would have to pay the entire advance back by 12/1/99 or make payments of $150.00 a month with an interest rate of 12% payable no later than the 5th of each month beginning 1/5/00. If the payment is not received by their office by the 5th of the month a $25.00 late fee will be applied. I have no employment contracts with the company. What is my recourse?

 

[Ex HR Guy]

I am not from Idaho, but I sure know that if it is an advance, you owe the money. But most firms do not go out of the way to colllect small amounts. Have you any basis to claim you were discriminated agaist?

 

[Ralph Ritchey]

I know the money is due them and will pay it back... it's just that it happened so fast.
everything was fine and then an abrupt aboutface. Do I need a laywer to get a better repay (one that fits my budget) or should I try and talk to these people by myself and see if I can work out something? What basic points would I need in writing?
No discrimination that I know of.

[This message has been edited by Ralph Ritchey (edited December 15, 1999).]

 

[Ex HR Guy]

You do not need a lawyer, but if the amount is large enough it may pay to get a pro's advice. Is there anyone in the Company you have a good relationship with that might help you work it out?

 

[Ralph Ritchey]

No.
Thank you for the help.
Happy Holidays to you and yours.
RRR