The FLSA authorizes the Wage and Hour Division to assess employers civil money
penalties (CMPs) of up to $1,100 for each violation for repeated or willful violations of
the minimum wage and overtime requirements of the Act.
CMPs are intended to discourage employers from future noncompliance and are not
tied to the amount of the back wage liability incurred. They will ordinarily be assessed
based on violations occurring within a two-year investigation period. Where violations
are determined to be willful, the investigation will cover a three year period.
