Complaint Review: Bel-Fury Investments Group

I began working for Bel-Fury Investments Group as an assistant marketing contractor on January 8, 2010, working under the direct supervision of Elaina Hollingshead. My job was twofold, working on marketing opportunities for the company related to internet advertising, and showing properties to prospective buyers and renters.  Upon taking the position, Elaina explained to me that I would be earning $10 an hour for the advertising and showings. Along with this, there would be the opportunity to make a commissioned amount of $250 per rented property. This was the agreement made upon my accepting the position. I have a copy of that written agreement, as completed by Sharon Moore, from the finance department of the company.

For the first month of working as a contractor, I received two paychecks, for the pay periods dated December 30 through January 15 and January 16 through January 31, both of which were substantially late, ranging from a few days to over two weeks late. I tried to remain understanding with the company, hoping the issue was just a snag and would be corrected quickly.

After the paycheck I received on February 22, 2010 for the pay period of January 16 through January 31, I have not seen another paycheck. I turned in invoices for three pay periods after that and the company has refused to pay me. I have a copy contractor pay schedule, showing pay periods that I am owed pay, as well as copies of invoices from the last three pay periods that I have not seen a paycheck from yet.

On or around the date of March 5, 2010, I received a phone call from Elaina stating that she would be looking for a new contractor to show houses on a commissioned basis only. She offered me the position first, but I told her it wouldnt be financially viable for me to take the position so I declined. I brought up the issue of pay once again, as well as the two commissioned that were due to me upon the successful renting of properties located at 1521 Parkwild Ave. and 2810 Crawford St. She said that we had never agreed to the commission pay. I have a copy of an email from the client whom rented 1521 Parkwild stating that I did a great job helping them find the house and that he and his wife greatly appreciate the help. 

On March 9, 2010, I sent a certified letter, as well as an email to Bel-Fury Investments, stating that I would be leaving the position due to late or unpaid wages. Included in the letter is my address as to where to forward past due paychecks and commissioned earnings.

Since this time, I have been completely cooperative with Bel-Fury Investments. They sent me a letter asking for information on advertising accounts I had been using while I was employed there and I have been happy to share this information in order to help the company continue with its daily activities.  I have no further issues with Bel-Fury Investments, I just wish to be paid for the work I completed while I was employed there. 

Update: This case is now at Civil Court because Bel-Fury wants to use an attorney in the case, rather than just settling at the Small Claims Court level.