I was issued a severance check by mistake. I worked to get the money reversed but the company did not correct the problem. Now they want me ...

Question

I was issued a severance check by mistake. I worked to get the money reversed but the company did not correct the problem. Now they want me to mail them a check or money order. Can I deduct money for the time I have worked on resolving the issue?

Answer

It's not a good idea. I assume you are an employee at will. Therefore, you can fired for any reason that is not protected by law. I would return the money and send copies of the letters and e-mails you sent trying to resolve the problem. It's not worth the risk of finding yourself unemployed in what is still a bad economy.

Also licensed in New York.