Is it legal for a bar owner to have someone work under the table and pay them in alcohol?

Question

Is it legal for a bar owner to have someone work under the table and pay them in alcohol?

Anonymous Oct 24, 2012 2 views 3 answers

My boss has a man working under the table for drinks and has dropped my hours because its cheaper for him that way. I have a family to support and I need my hours! If it is not legal then what can I do to put a stop to it?

Robert Daniel KellyPersonal Injury LawyerSeattle, WA · Accepted Answer · 2026-06-15T10:40:02+00:00

There are federal and State laws regulating minimum wages and the payment of taxes. See http://www.lni.wa.gov/workplacerights/ and http://www.dol.gov/. Reporting your employer might cause some friction in the workplace, though.

Shawn Alexander · Accepted Answer · 2026-06-15T10:40:02+00:00

Shawn Alexander

Shawn Alexander · Jun 15, 2026

No, the Washington Liquor Control Board may have a comment or two about trading liquor. Good Luck

0 upvotes

J Ferrari · Accepted Answer · 2026-06-15T10:40:02+00:00

J Ferrari

J Ferrari · Jun 15, 2026

No, it is not legal.

0 upvotes

Is it legal for a bar owner to have someone work under the table and pay them in alcohol?

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