When you’re working hourly, things that seem small add up over time. When you break it down, a half hour might feel like not much, but when you spread it across multiple paychecks, it makes a huge difference. This is why, as an hourly worker, you have to be diligent about keeping up with your hours. You have to track them and calculate them to make sure you’re getting everything you’re owed. It’s easy for managers and business owners to neglect what’s going on under their noses. 

Either they’re just oblivious and aren’t keeping track of details or they’re maliciously trying to pull the wool over your eyes. In both cases, it’s up to you to hold them accountable. This is your burden as an hourly worker. That, and probably not having PTO. And a few other things. You know what? You have it bad enough as an hourly worker without worrying about wage theft.