Every Worker has Rights at Work, Including Undocumented Workers

Minimum Wage: Most workers have the right to be paid the current minimum wage in Ohio. For the current rate, check: https://www.dol.gov/whd/minwage/america.htm

If you make tips at work, the amount you make in tips plus the amount you make per hour must add up to at least the minimum wage rate.

Overtime Pay: Most workers have the right to overtime pay when they work over 40 hours in a workweek. The overtime rate is one and one-half (1½) times your rate of pay. For example, a $10/ hour regular rate would be a $15/hour overtime rate ($10 x 1.5 = $15).

Discrimination and Sexual Harassment: You have the right to a workplace that is free from sexual harassment and discrimination based on your race, color, sex (including pregnancy), religion, disability, national origin, ancestry, military status and age.

You also have the right to participate in any claim or investigation about these issues.

Organizing: You have the right to organize a union at work and talk about unionizing during nonwork hours (breaks). You also have the right to talk to your supervisor about problems at work that affect you or your coworkers.

Safety: You have the right to a safe workplace. Your work must provide and require the use of proper safety gear and safeguards. You cannot be forced to enter any workplace that is unsafe. You cannot be forced to perform work without proper safety gear or safeguards.

How to Protect Yourself

Document! Keep your own records of (1) what days you worked; (2) how many hours you worked each day; and (3) whether you took any breaks and how long.  Always compare your pay rate on your paystub to what you were actually paid and document any difference between the two.

Know Who You Are Working For!  Know the address and phone number for your workplace and the name of your supervisor.

Get Help! Get help as soon as you can when you believe that something may be wrong.

What to Do if Your Employer Owes You Pay

Call Legal Aid at 888.817.3777 or 216.687.1900.

File a complaint with the State of Ohio Bureau of Wage and Hour Administration at 614.644.2239.

Call the U.S. Department of Labor, Wage and Hour Division at 866.487.9243 or 216.357.5400.

File a lawsuit in Small Claims Court for up to $6,000 in unpaid wages, plus interest and costs.

What to Do if You Were Discriminated Against or You Were Punished for Speaking Up About Your Rights

Call Legal Aid at 888.817.3777 or 216.687.1900.

If you were discriminated against, file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) at 800.669.4000 or the Ohio Civil Rights Commission (OCRC) at 216.787.3150.

If your right to organize was violated, file a complaint with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) at 216.522.3715.

What to Do if Your Workplace is Unsafe

Notify your supervisor or the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) at 216.447.4194.

Ask OSHA to inspect your workplace.

If you were discriminated against or punished because you filed a safety complaint with OSHA, you have 30 days to inform OSHA of the discrimination or retaliation by filing an additional complaint.

Request copies of your medical records from your doctor and collect other records that document your exposure to toxic or harmful chemicals.

What to Do if You Were Hurt on the Job

As soon as you are hurt:

1. 1. Get medical help;
   2. Tell your work you have been hurt. Let your supervisor know you have been hurt and ask if you need to fill out an accident report;
   3. Tell your doctor or emergency room the name of your health care organization that handles workers’ compensation claims. If you don’t know, find out from your workplace. This helps ensure your injury is counted as work related;
   4. Tell your pharmacist that any prescriptions you receive are related to treatment for an Ohio Worker’s Compensation claim;
   5. File a Workers’ Compensation claim with the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation.

What more info?

More information is available in this brochure published by Legal Aid: Employment Law

You have the right to an interpreter in your native language if you have Limited English Proficiency, which means that you are not fluent in English. Many agencies and organizations are required to provide Limited English Proficient individuals with interpreters.

For a list of agencies that must provide interpreters, instructions on how to request an interpreter, and what you can do if you are denied an interpreter, click on the link below for a brochure written in many languages: You Have The Right to an Interpreter

In Ohio, a guardianship is an involuntary proceeding where a family member or other concerned person asks a Probate Court to protect someone who appears to be incompetent.  Probate Court can appoint a guardian for a minor or adult (called a ward) who is not able to manage his or her own affairs because of young age, advanced age, substance abuse, or physical or mental disability.

Learn more about the definitions of “guardian” and “ward”, the responsibilities of a guardian, the rights of a ward, when a guardianship is necessary, and what to do when a ward disagrees with a guardian or no longer needs a guardian in this brochure published by Legal Aid.

Ohio Guardianship (English)

Tutela en Ohio (Español)

Written by Andy Cheng for UC News on 10/28/2020

University of Cincinnati College of Law students always find ways to make a difference, and Heather Campbell is no exception. This past summer, the third-year student gained valuable experience as a summer associate at The Legal Aid Society of Cleveland in the Family Law Practice Group. She primarily worked with clients who were seeking divorce or civil protection due to domestic violence.

“I worked directly with clients by conducting interviews to determine whether their case was one with which Legal Aid was able to assist, either immediately or in the future,” Campbell explained.

If a case was accepted, Campbell was responsible for gathering information necessary to build their case and advocate for the clients. Her job responsibilities included drafting applications, pleadings, and affidavits, as well as preparing clients for their appearances at hearings.

In response to COVID-19, Campbell said she also played an important role for the Ohio Supreme Court by drafting a policy memo regarding best practices for video-conferencing in domestic violence hearings.

Campbell acknowledged the challenges that came with working remotely due to the ongoing pandemic. However, this proved to be an excellent learning and growth experience for her.

“When I accepted the position, I was not anticipating all the work would be done remotely,” she said. “All my previous experience in building relationships with clients had been in-person, so it was a considerable adjustment for me to create that rapport over the phone by humanizing myself and the client.”

“I’ve always been passionate about social justice, and am strongly of the belief that basic human rights and dignities are not up for debate.” – Heather Campbell

For Campbell, it was important to express empathy for her clients by listening to their stories and validating their experiences. Asking questions from a prepared list wouldn’t have created that same connection. By the end of the summer, she became more skilled and comfortable with asking direct and sometimes uncomfortable questions so she could build the strongest case for her clients.

This summer experience also allowed Campbell to work closely with experts in the field of domestic violence.

“I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to work with Alexandria Ruden, a senior attorney with 40 years of experience in domestic violence law, and who literally writes the book on Ohio domestic violence law,” she said.

Overall, the summer experience proved valuable for Campbell: “I can’t say enough good things about my summer experience with Cleveland Legal Aid,” she said.

During the summer, the organization adapted its program to keep the summer associates on in spite of COVID-19, and it also provided an experience that was as close as possible to working in-person.

Read the original story at UC News

FREE Legal Assistance for Families in Say Yes Schools!

Say Yes legal services help families achieve safety, economic security and permanent housing so children can stay in school and thrive.  Click here for a helpful bilingual info card.

Legal assistance is available to help with the following types of legal problems:

NEED HELP?

Choose the option that works best for you:

1. Ask your family support specialist for a referral
2. Call 216.861.5510 to request assistance
3. Apply for help online by clicking here.

Need more guidance and info?  CLICK HERE to learn more about Legal Aid’s robust Access to Education work.  At this page you can read helpful FAQs, brochures and learn more to ensure help kids are successful in school.

A representative payee (“rep payee”) is a person appointed by the Social Security Administration (SSA) to manage you Social Security or SSI benefits. SSA will only appoint a rep payee if they believe that you are not able to manage your money so that all of your food, clothing and housing needs are met.

This brochure will help you understand what a rep payee is, who can be a payee, what they are supposed to do for you, and your rights with a rep payee.

More information is available in this brochure published by Legal Aid: What I Should Know If I Have a Rep Payee

Are you a low-income U.S. Veteran facing problems with:

Money?

• Have your veteran’s benefits been terminated or reduced due to overpayment?
• Have you been denied or terminated from other government benefits? (e.g. Food Stamps, cash assistance, SSI, Unemployment Compensation)
• Do you have debts that cause problems with meeting your needs, for example obtaining utilities, driver’s license, or housing?
• Have you received any letters or notices from the IRS about your federal taxes?

Housing? 

• Have you applied for and been denied a subsidy to help pay for housing?
• Is your rent subsidy being terminated?
• Does your apartment need repairs that your landlord refuses to make?
• Has your landlord given you a notice to leave your apartment or are you being evicted?
• Are you behind on mortgage payments or facing foreclosure?
• Did you receive a shut off notice for your lights, gas, or water?

Family?

• Are you afraid for your safety because of your current or former significant other or household member?
• Are you afraid for your child’s safety?
• Do you have problems paying child support?
• Does your child have problems in school with learning or with behavior?
• Do you have trouble accessing health care?

Health?

• Do you have trouble filling your prescriptions for medication?
• Do you have a criminal record that prevents you from getting a job?

Employment?

• Have you been denied a professional license (e.g. barber, day care provider, STNA?)
• Do you need your driver’s license reinstated in order to work?

If YES, contact The Legal Aid Society of Cleveland for help. Click here for a flyer with more information!

Farmers may apply with the U.S. government to hire workers from other countries on temporary work visas called H2A visas. Not all work visas are H2A visas. If you are not sure what kind of visa you have, check your passport or other immigration documents.

H2A workers with questions about taxes or getting an ITIN for a dependent should call The Legal Aid Society of Cleveland. Legal Aid has a Low Income Taxpayer Clinic (LITC) that may be able to help. Please call Legal Aid at 1.888.817.3777.

More information is available in this bilingual brochure published by Legal Aid: Tax Help for H2A Workers / Ayuda con los Impuestos para Trabajadores/as H2A

How do you respond to a custody summons from juvenile court? This brochure outlines what happens during and after a summons, and what steps you should take if  a parent poses a violent threat to your child.

More information can be found in this brochure published by Legal Aid: How Do You Respond to a Custody Summons?

This information can also be found in Spanish at:  ¿Cómo responder a un Citatorio de Custodia?

Are you pregnant or do you have a child? This brochure explains how pregnancy or having a child might affect your public benefits and other legal issues.

More information can be found in both English and Spanish at:  Healthy Mommies, Healthy Babies/Mamás y bebés sanos

If you are an immigrant and have been a victim of crime, Legal Aid may be able to assist  you with asserting your rights under  immigration laws. This brochure  outlines U-Visas for victims of Crime, Special Immigrant Juvenile Status,  and T-Visas for human trafficking. This brochure also discusses how immigrants  can assert their  rights under the Violence Against Women Act.

More information is available in multiple languages in this brochure published by Legal Aid:  Legal Help for Immigrant Victims of Crime

A Spanish version of this brochure is available by clicking here: Spanish Version – Legal Help for Immigrant Victims of Crime

This brochure outlines what Legal Aid can do for Immigrants in Northeast Ohio. Legal Aid can assist many immigrants to the U.S., not just citizens or permanent residents, and works on  cases such as detainee and deportation, and naturalization and citizenship. This brochure explains what Legal Aid can  assist immigrants and their families with.

More information is available in multiple languages in this brochure published by Legal Aid: Legal Assistance for Immigrants

Legal Aid may be able to help you with your immigration situation if you cannot afford an attorney. This brochure outlines the rights immigration detainees have, including the right to speak with an attorney about their cases, the right to request release from custody on bond, the right to contact their country’s Consulate or Embassy, and the right to contact family members. Also included are important contact numbers that may help in resolving your immigration issue.

This brochure is available in both English and Spanish at: Notice for Immigration Detainees in Northeast Ohio/ Aviso a los Detenidos de Inmigración en el Nordeste de Ohio.

The Cleveland Metropolitan School District has agreed to provide interpretation and translation services to students and parents with material related to schooling. This flyer explains what  services the Cleveland School district has agreed to provide.

This flyer is available in both English and Spanish at: Language Access for Parents/Acceso lingüístico para los padres.

This brochure explains Ohio’s anti-bullying laws, which apply to all public school and charter schools. Bullying is defined broadly as mental harm, physical harm, harm within a dating relationship or harm by an act done through an electronic device. Schools are required to make a safe, bully-free learning environment. Parents can protect their child by knowing their rights, reporting abuse, and communicating with their child. This brochure also explains how parents can seek legal advice if a school has failed to protect their child or comply with state laws.

More information is available in this brochure published by Legal Aid: Bullying in Ohio Schools

This brochure is also available in Spanish: Intimidación en las Escuelas de Ohio

This brochure explains the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act, which  is a federal law that requires school districts to provide an education to homeless students. This law protects students rights to enroll in school or continue attending school despite lacking necessary documents, and to transfer and be transported to a school that is convenient to them. Public school has a  liaison who assists homeless students and their families. This brochure also explains  how families can seek  legal help if a  child’s school is not fulfilling  these obligations.

More information is available in this brochure published by Legal Aid: Access to Education for Homeless Students Living in Temporary Housing

This information is also available in Spanish: Acceso a la Educación por Alumnos Sin Casa y Alumnos que Están Viviendo en Viviendas Temporales

If your child has been suspended or expelled, you should be aware of your rights. This  flyer outlines some of them. They include your right to receive written notice of a school’s intention to suspend or expel your child, your child’s right to have a lawyer at an expulsion hearing, your right to get copies of all documents that will be used at an expulsion hearing, and your right to appeal an expulsion decision.

More information is available in English and Spanish at: School Discipline: Know Your Rights/Disciplina Escolar: Conozca sus Derechos – Expulsiones Escolares

If you think your child has learning problems, you may ask the school to test your child for special education. This  flyer outlines some of the rights you and your child have. They include the right to request an individualized education plan (IEP) meeting at any time, extra rights and protections for suspensions and expulsions, and your right to request a re-evaluation of your child once a year.

More information is available in English   and Spanish at: Special Education: Know Your Rights/Educación Especial: Conozca sus Derechos.

Is your school not responding to your concerns? Does your child need special education? Has your child been suspended or expelled? Legal Aid may be able to help.

More information is available in this brochure published by Legal Aid: Is Your Child having Problems at School?

This brochure is also available in Spanish at:   Tiene su Niño(a) Problemas en la Escuela?

Has your income dropped since you were first ordered to pay child support? You may be able to change the amount of child support you pay. The change is called “modification.” This brochure outlines the steps you should take in applying for modification and describes the advantages, disadvantages, and requirements of applying through either your local Child Support Enforcement Agency (CSEA) or through the courts. Also included is information on what to do if the child is no longer a minor, what may happen after you request a change, and a list of addresses and phone numbers of where to go to request a child support modification.

More information is available in this brochure published by Legal Aid: Paying for Child Support? Here’s How to Apply for a Change

This brochure is also available in Spanish at:    ¿Esta pagando manutención de menores? Aquí es como puede solicitar un cambio.

Are you the victim of domestic abuse or violence? This brochure describes what domestic violence is, provides the numbers of local and national domestic violence hotlines, and outlines steps to take if you are a victim of abuse. It explains the importance of a Criminal Temporary Protection Order (TPO) and Civil Protection Order (CPO), the differences between the two, and how to file for each. The brochure also describes how to press for criminal charges and what to do if charges are filed and the abuser is convicted.

More information is available in this brochure published by Legal Aid: Domestic Violence: What Is It? What Can You Do About It?

This brochure is also available in Spanish at: Violencia Doméstica:  ¿Qué es?  ¿Qué puede hacer usted acerca de esto?

The goal behind mediation is to reach a satisfactory agreement between both parents without having to appear before a Magistrate. More than two-thirds of parents agree to a plan during mediation. This brochure outlines what Custody Mediation is, what will happen at Custody Mediation, how long the mediation will take, steps you should take to prepare, and things you should bring with you to the meeting between yourself, the other parent, and the mediator.

More information is available in this brochure published by Legal Aid: Custody Mediation: What You Should Know in Advance

This information is also available in Spanish: Mediación de Custodia: Lo Que Debe Saber de Antemano

This brochure explains how courts determine custody rights and parental obligations.  It describes the differences between the two types of child custody, “residential parent” and “shared parenting,” and   outlines the factors a court will consider in deciding what type of custody arrangement is appropriate, including any history of abuse by either parent, the wishes of the parents and child, and the mental and physical health of all persons involved.

More information is available in this brochure published by Legal Aid: Custody: How Does the Court Decide?

This brochure is also available in Spanish at: Custodia: ¿Como decide el Tribunal?

COVID-19 has impacted my ability to make my mortgage payments. What relief is available? 

Most homeowners are protected under federal law from foreclosure and can temporarily pause or reduce their mortgage payments if they’re struggling financially.

You’re protected if your mortgage is backed by Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, HUD/FHA, VA, or USDA.

You still may have relief options through your mortgage loan servicer or from your state, even if your loan is not insured, guaranteed, owned, or backed by Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, or the federal government.

Click for help finding out who services your mortgage.

What relief is available for Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, and federally backed mortgages?

There are two protections for homeowners with mortgages backed by Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, or the federal government: COVID hardship mortgage forbearance and a foreclosure moratorium.

These protections were originally made available to eligible homeowners under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, and have since been expanded to provide additional assistance to homeowners through guidance from federal agencies, Fannie Mae, and Freddie Mac.

Click here for a quick and easy “Know Your Rights” reference card (in English and Spanish, updated 10/2020) with COVID-19 legal info related to housing, employment, money, benefits, immigration, education and family issues.

Need a volume of these info cards?  Call 216-861-5889 to request some for use in community distribution of food boxes, home school packets and for use with other outreach.

Click here for a quick and easy reference (in English and Spanish, updated 10/2020) with how to ask questions or get legal help during the coronavirus pandemic.

This flyer is printable for use by community partners in food boxes, home school packets and for use with other outreach.

Every Worker has Rights at Work, Including Undocumented Workers

Minimum Wage: Most workers have the right to be paid the current minimum wage in Ohio. For the current rate, check: https://www.dol.gov/whd/minwage/america.htm

If you make tips at work, the amount you make in tips plus the amount you make per hour must add up to at least the minimum wage rate.

Overtime Pay: Most workers have the right to overtime pay when they work over 40 hours in a workweek. The overtime rate is one and one-half (1½) times your rate of pay. For example, a $10/ hour regular rate would be a $15/hour overtime rate ($10 x 1.5 = $15).

Discrimination and Sexual Harassment: You have the right to a workplace that is free from sexual harassment and discrimination based on your race, color, sex (including pregnancy), religion, disability, national origin, ancestry, military status and age.

You also have the right to participate in any claim or investigation about these issues.

Organizing: You have the right to organize a union at work and talk about unionizing during nonwork hours (breaks). You also have the right to talk to your supervisor about problems at work that affect you or your coworkers.

Safety: You have the right to a safe workplace. Your work must provide and require the use of proper safety gear and safeguards. You cannot be forced to enter any workplace that is unsafe. You cannot be forced to perform work without proper safety gear or safeguards.

How to Protect Yourself

Document! Keep your own records of (1) what days you worked; (2) how many hours you worked each day; and (3) whether you took any breaks and how long.  Always compare your pay rate on your paystub to what you were actually paid and document any difference between the two.

Know Who You Are Working For!  Know the address and phone number for your workplace and the name of your supervisor.

Get Help! Get help as soon as you can when you believe that something may be wrong.

What to Do if Your Employer Owes You Pay

Call Legal Aid at 888.817.3777 or 216.687.1900.

File a complaint with the State of Ohio Bureau of Wage and Hour Administration at 614.644.2239.

Call the U.S. Department of Labor, Wage and Hour Division at 866.487.9243 or 216.357.5400.

File a lawsuit in Small Claims Court for up to $6,000 in unpaid wages, plus interest and costs.

What to Do if You Were Discriminated Against or You Were Punished for Speaking Up About Your Rights

Call Legal Aid at 888.817.3777 or 216.687.1900.

If you were discriminated against, file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) at 800.669.4000 or the Ohio Civil Rights Commission (OCRC) at 216.787.3150.

If your right to organize was violated, file a complaint with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) at 216.522.3715.

What to Do if Your Workplace is Unsafe

Notify your supervisor or the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) at 216.447.4194.

Ask OSHA to inspect your workplace.

If you were discriminated against or punished because you filed a safety complaint with OSHA, you have 30 days to inform OSHA of the discrimination or retaliation by filing an additional complaint.

Request copies of your medical records from your doctor and collect other records that document your exposure to toxic or harmful chemicals.

What to Do if You Were Hurt on the Job

As soon as you are hurt:

1. 1. Get medical help;
   2. Tell your work you have been hurt. Let your supervisor know you have been hurt and ask if you need to fill out an accident report;
   3. Tell your doctor or emergency room the name of your health care organization that handles workers’ compensation claims. If you don’t know, find out from your workplace. This helps ensure your injury is counted as work related;
   4. Tell your pharmacist that any prescriptions you receive are related to treatment for an Ohio Worker’s Compensation claim;
   5. File a Workers’ Compensation claim with the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation.

What more info?

More information is available in this brochure published by Legal Aid: Employment Law

A representative payee (“rep payee”) is a person appointed by the Social Security Administration (SSA) to manage you Social Security or SSI benefits. SSA will only appoint a rep payee if they believe that you are not able to manage your money so that all of your food, clothing and housing needs are met.

This brochure will help you understand what a rep payee is, who can be a payee, what they are supposed to do for you, and your rights with a rep payee.

More information is available in this brochure published by Legal Aid: What I Should Know If I Have a Rep Payee

Learn about Ohio Landlord-Tenant Law through this new brochure published by Legal Aid.

Ohio Landlord-Tenant Law: The Basics

Ley de Arrendadores e Inquilinos de Ohio: Cuestiones básicas

Sheria ya Mwenye Nyumba- Mpangaji ya Ohio: Mambo ya Msingi

In Ohio a Landlord has a duty to:

1. Keep the property in livable condition.
2. Keep the common areas clean and safe.
3. Comply with building, housing, health, and safety codes.
4. Keep in good working order all electrical, plumbing, heating, and ventilation equipment.
5. Maintain all appliances and equipment supplied by the landlord.
6. Provide running water, hot water and heat (unless the hot water and heat are controlled entirely by the tenant and supplied by a direct public utility hook-up).
7. Provide garbage cans and trash removal (if the landlord owns four or more residential units in the same building).
8. Give at least 24 hours notice, unless it is an emergency, before entering a tenant’s unit, and enter only at reasonable times and in a reasonable manner.
9. Evict the tenant when informed by a law enforcement officer of drug activity by the tenant, a member of the tenant’s household, or a guest of the tenant occurring in or otherwise connected with the tenant’s premises.

In Ohio a Tenant has a duty to:

1. Keep the property clean and safe.
2. Dispose of rubbish in the proper manner.
3. Keep the plumbing fixtures as clean as their condition permits.
4. Use electrical and plumbing fixtures properly.
5. Comply with housing, health, and safety codes that apply to tenants.
6. Refrain from damaging the property and keep guests from causing damage.
7. Maintain appliances supplied by the landlord in good working order.
8. Conduct yourself in a manner that does not disturb any neighbors and require guests to do the same.
9. Permit landlord to enter the dwelling unit if the request is reasonable and proper notice is given.
10. Comply with state or municipal drug laws in connection with the property and require household members and guests to do the same.

Lead poisoning occurs when lead builds up in the body, often over months or years. Even small amounts of lead can cause serious health problems. Children younger than 6 years are especially vulnerable to lead poisoning, which can severely affect mental and physical development. At very high levels, lead poisoning can be fatal.

Lead-based paint and lead-contaminated dust in older buildings are the most common sources of lead poisoning in children.  There is treatment for lead poisoning, but taking some simple precautions can help protect you and your family from lead exposure before harm is done.

Legal Aid can help!  Click here for an informative brochure about Lead Poisoning: Know Your Rights, Remedies & Resources.  You can also browse other Legal Aid articles related to lead poisoning and related FAQ’s and brochures by clicking here.

Get Tested for Lead

Young Children at Risk
Children 6 years old and under are at most risk for damage from lead poisoning. Children may be at risk of lead poisoning if:

• They live in or visit a home built before 1978.
• Paint is peeling on windows or doors.
• Large patches of bare dirt are exposed around their home.

Child Testing
Have your child’s doctor test your child’s blood lead levels. If you are covered by Medicaid, the lead screening will be covered. If the blood lead level is above 5 μg/dl there is cause for concern.

If the blood lead level is above 10 μg/dl, Ohio law requires the Ohio Department of Health or a local health department to inspect the child’s home for lead hazards. Update your contact information with the child’s doctor to ensure the Department of Health can inspect.

Home Testing
Call the Ohio Department of Health at 877-532-3723 to get more information on having the place a child lives or visits tested for lead. Cleveland residents should call 216-664-2175. Other Cuyahoga County residents should call 216-201-2000.

Get the Lead Out

Tenants
If you live in a rental unit built before 1978, notify your landlord in writing if there is any peeling paint, large patches of bare dirt on the premises, or if your child has lead poisoning and request that your landlord make repairs. Date the letter and keep a copy for your records. If your landlord fails to make repairs within 30 days, under Ohio law you may:

• Deposit your rent in escrow at the court.  You must be current in rent payments to use this process. See step by step directions for rent depositing at: https://tinyurl.com/LegalAidRentDeposit.
• Apply to the court to order the landlord to make repairs to lead hazards.
• Terminate your lease and move.
• Depositing rent may waive your rights to sue your landlord for any injury resulting from the lead poisoning. To consider any claims against your landlord, consult with an attorney before depositing rent.

Call Legal Aid if your landlord files an eviction or raises your rent after you have provided notice of a lead condition or because you have contacted the Health Department because of lead conditions.

Homeowners
Contact your local public health authorities for information on assistance programs to make your home lead-safe. Federal law requires disclosure of any known lead hazard at the time of sale.

Get Help

Help Your Child
Lead poisoning may have long term effects including attention difficulties, behavior problems, or learning challenges. A nutritional diet early on may help. For more information see: www.epa.gov/lead.

Early Intervention
A child under the age of 3 years old that has been lead poisoned may qualify for early intervention Help Me Grow services, even if they are not showing signs of delay. Call Help Me Grow at 800-755-4769.

Special Education
If a child has learning or behavior problems in school, ask the school to evaluate the child for special education services. Let the school know the child was lead poisoned, and it is impacting the child’s education.

• Put the request in writing.
• Date the request and keep a copy.
• If you are not given a written response within 30 days, contact Legal Aid.

Personal Injury Suit
You may have claims if your child has been lead poisoned. Lawsuits based on lead poisoning may be difficult to prove. Call your local bar association to consult with an attorney who handles personal injury claims.

Contact Legal Aid
Call Legal Aid’s intake line or visit your local Legal Aid office.  Click here for details: www.lasclev.org/contact/

Legal Aid’s Brief Advice Clinics
Want to talk in-person with an attorney? In addition to in-person and phone intake, Legal Aid offers Brief Advice Clinics in neighborhoods throughout Northeast Ohio. At the Clinics you can talk in-person with an attorney and ask questions about your legal problem.

Text 216-242-1544 with the message LAS CLINIC for date and location of next clinic or visit www.lasclev.org for a complete schedule.

Contact the Bar Association
Contact your local bar association for a referral to a private attorney.

• Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association: 216-696-3532
• Lorain County Bar Association: 440-323-8416
• Lake County, Ohio Bar Association: 440-350-5800
• Geauga County Bar Association: 440-286-7160
• Ashtabula County Bar Association: 440-415-4503

Click here for a helpful info card which briefly highlights your rights related to Lead Poisoning.

First steps to prevention

• The most common sources of lead are peeling paint and bare soil.
• Contact your landlord in writing to request a repair of these conditions.

Test your Children

• Ask your pediatrician to test your child for lead poisoning.
• If your child’s blood lead level is above 5 μg/dl there is cause for concern.
• If it is above 10 μg/dl the Department of Health should inspect your home.

Get Help

• If your child is falling behind in school, ask the school in writing to evaluate them for special education and mention their lead
  poisoning. Contact Legal Aid if you do not receive a response within 30 days.
• If your landlord refuses to repair lead hazards, contact Legal Aid.

Text FAQ LEAD to 216.242.1544 for a link to more information, including resources for homeowners.

Do You Need Health Insurance?  Sign up NOW for free or reduced cost health care! Almost everyone in Ohio can get health insurance now under the Affordable Care Act.

Many more Ohioans are now eligible for FREE health care coverage through Medicaid:

• If you are between the ages 19 to 64 years old; and
• If your income is below 138% of the federal poverty level (about $1,321 per month for an individual and about $2,708 per month for a family of 4); and
• Even if you were denied Medicaid in the past…

Apply for Medicaid:

• online at www.benefits.ohio.gov; or
• by phone at 1-800-324-8680; or
• in person at your local County Department of Job and Family Services office.

If you are denied Medicaid by the county or tax credits by the Marketplace, Legal Aid may be able to help you. Call Legal Aid intake at 1-888-817-3777.

CLICK HERE for an informational flyer in both English and Spanish!

Are you pregnant or do you have a child? This brochure explains how pregnancy or having a child might affect your public benefits and other legal issues.

More information can be found in both English and Spanish at:  Healthy Mommies, Healthy Babies/Mamás y bebés sanos

Are you recently unemployed? You can receive unemployment compensation benefits if you are unemployed (1) due to lack of work (laid off), (2) you were discharged without just cause, or (3) you quit  with just cause. This brochure outlines how to apply for unemployment benefits, what a Determination is, and how you can appeal an unfavorable Determination. Also included is information on what happens after a Redetermination is issued and steps you must take to continue receiving unemployment benefits after you apply. For more information and to apply for benefits online, you can visit https://unemployment.ohio.gov.

More information is available in this brochure published by Legal Aid: What You Need to Know About Unemployment Benefits

This brochure is also available in Spanish at: Lo que usted debe Conocer Acerca del Beneficio de Desempleo

Lost your job and your former employer will not give you your last paycheck? Here are some steps you can take. This brochure explains what you should do if you cannot get your last paycheck. (1) Remember to give back all company property, (2) wait until your regular payday has passed, and (3) make a request for your paycheck in writing if your payday has passed. If that  doesn’t  work, you may file a complaint with the Ohio Wage and Hour Bureau, call Legal Aid, or go to Small Claims Court.  Contact information is  included.

More information is available in this brochure published by Legal Aid: Can’t Get Your Last Pay Check?

Are you the victim of domestic abuse or violence? This brochure describes what domestic violence is, provides the numbers of local and national domestic violence hotlines, and outlines steps to take if you are a victim of abuse. It explains the importance of a Criminal Temporary Protection Order (TPO) and Civil Protection Order (CPO), the differences between the two, and how to file for each. The brochure also describes how to press for criminal charges and what to do if charges are filed and the abuser is convicted.

More information is available in this brochure published by Legal Aid: Domestic Violence: What Is It? What Can You Do About It?

This brochure is also available in Spanish at: Violencia Doméstica:  ¿Qué es?  ¿Qué puede hacer usted acerca de esto?

Yes. Legal Aid helps older adults with limited income plan for the future by preparing the following documents:

• Health care power of attorney
• Living Will
• Last Will and Testament
• Durable powers of attorney
• Property transfers outside of probate

Call 1.888.817.3777 or apply online at www.lasclev.org/contact. Click here for a flyer with this information.

Family Matters: What are Some Common Questions about Living Wills and Health Care Powers of Attorney?

Family Matters: Are Wills Really that Important?

Family Matters: How Do I Name a Durable Power of Attorney?

COVID-19 has impacted my ability to make my mortgage payments. What relief is available? 

Most homeowners are protected under federal law from foreclosure and can temporarily pause or reduce their mortgage payments if they’re struggling financially.

You’re protected if your mortgage is backed by Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, HUD/FHA, VA, or USDA.

You still may have relief options through your mortgage loan servicer or from your state, even if your loan is not insured, guaranteed, owned, or backed by Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, or the federal government.

Click for help finding out who services your mortgage.

What relief is available for Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, and federally backed mortgages?

There are two protections for homeowners with mortgages backed by Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, or the federal government: COVID hardship mortgage forbearance and a foreclosure moratorium.

These protections were originally made available to eligible homeowners under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, and have since been expanded to provide additional assistance to homeowners through guidance from federal agencies, Fannie Mae, and Freddie Mac.

Call Legal Aid at 216-687-1900 or apply for help 24/7 online.

CLICK HERE for a artwork you can download/print to help spread the word!

Written by Jeremy Nobile in Crain’s Cleveland’s Business on 07/07/2019

In Ohio, if a landlord refuses to make necessary repairs within a reasonable amount of time, a tenant can “rent deposit.”

“Rent deposit” or “rent escrow” means a tenant can pay rent to a court, instead of the landlord.

The tenant must be very careful to follow certain rules when paying rent to a court. If a tenant stops paying rent because the property needs repairs, the tenant risks an eviction for non-payment of rent. Instead of refusing to pay the rent, a tenant should follow the rent deposit procedure.

Click here for a brochure on “How to Rent Deposit” published by Legal Aid.

Learn about Ohio Landlord-Tenant Law through this new brochure published by Legal Aid.

Ohio Landlord-Tenant Law: The Basics

Ley de Arrendadores e Inquilinos de Ohio: Cuestiones básicas

Sheria ya Mwenye Nyumba- Mpangaji ya Ohio: Mambo ya Msingi

In Ohio a Landlord has a duty to:

1. Keep the property in livable condition.
2. Keep the common areas clean and safe.
3. Comply with building, housing, health, and safety codes.
4. Keep in good working order all electrical, plumbing, heating, and ventilation equipment.
5. Maintain all appliances and equipment supplied by the landlord.
6. Provide running water, hot water and heat (unless the hot water and heat are controlled entirely by the tenant and supplied by a direct public utility hook-up).
7. Provide garbage cans and trash removal (if the landlord owns four or more residential units in the same building).
8. Give at least 24 hours notice, unless it is an emergency, before entering a tenant’s unit, and enter only at reasonable times and in a reasonable manner.
9. Evict the tenant when informed by a law enforcement officer of drug activity by the tenant, a member of the tenant’s household, or a guest of the tenant occurring in or otherwise connected with the tenant’s premises.

In Ohio a Tenant has a duty to:

1. Keep the property clean and safe.
2. Dispose of rubbish in the proper manner.
3. Keep the plumbing fixtures as clean as their condition permits.
4. Use electrical and plumbing fixtures properly.
5. Comply with housing, health, and safety codes that apply to tenants.
6. Refrain from damaging the property and keep guests from causing damage.
7. Maintain appliances supplied by the landlord in good working order.
8. Conduct yourself in a manner that does not disturb any neighbors and require guests to do the same.
9. Permit landlord to enter the dwelling unit if the request is reasonable and proper notice is given.
10. Comply with state or municipal drug laws in connection with the property and require household members and guests to do the same.

Lead poisoning occurs when lead builds up in the body, often over months or years. Even small amounts of lead can cause serious health problems. Children younger than 6 years are especially vulnerable to lead poisoning, which can severely affect mental and physical development. At very high levels, lead poisoning can be fatal.

Lead-based paint and lead-contaminated dust in older buildings are the most common sources of lead poisoning in children.  There is treatment for lead poisoning, but taking some simple precautions can help protect you and your family from lead exposure before harm is done.

Legal Aid can help!  Click here for an informative brochure about Lead Poisoning: Know Your Rights, Remedies & Resources.  You can also browse other Legal Aid articles related to lead poisoning and related FAQ’s and brochures by clicking here.

Get Tested for Lead

Young Children at Risk
Children 6 years old and under are at most risk for damage from lead poisoning. Children may be at risk of lead poisoning if:

• They live in or visit a home built before 1978.
• Paint is peeling on windows or doors.
• Large patches of bare dirt are exposed around their home.

Child Testing
Have your child’s doctor test your child’s blood lead levels. If you are covered by Medicaid, the lead screening will be covered. If the blood lead level is above 5 μg/dl there is cause for concern.

If the blood lead level is above 10 μg/dl, Ohio law requires the Ohio Department of Health or a local health department to inspect the child’s home for lead hazards. Update your contact information with the child’s doctor to ensure the Department of Health can inspect.

Home Testing
Call the Ohio Department of Health at 877-532-3723 to get more information on having the place a child lives or visits tested for lead. Cleveland residents should call 216-664-2175. Other Cuyahoga County residents should call 216-201-2000.

Get the Lead Out

Tenants
If you live in a rental unit built before 1978, notify your landlord in writing if there is any peeling paint, large patches of bare dirt on the premises, or if your child has lead poisoning and request that your landlord make repairs. Date the letter and keep a copy for your records. If your landlord fails to make repairs within 30 days, under Ohio law you may:

• Deposit your rent in escrow at the court.  You must be current in rent payments to use this process. See step by step directions for rent depositing at: https://tinyurl.com/LegalAidRentDeposit.
• Apply to the court to order the landlord to make repairs to lead hazards.
• Terminate your lease and move.
• Depositing rent may waive your rights to sue your landlord for any injury resulting from the lead poisoning. To consider any claims against your landlord, consult with an attorney before depositing rent.

Call Legal Aid if your landlord files an eviction or raises your rent after you have provided notice of a lead condition or because you have contacted the Health Department because of lead conditions.

Homeowners
Contact your local public health authorities for information on assistance programs to make your home lead-safe. Federal law requires disclosure of any known lead hazard at the time of sale.

Get Help

Help Your Child
Lead poisoning may have long term effects including attention difficulties, behavior problems, or learning challenges. A nutritional diet early on may help. For more information see: www.epa.gov/lead.

Early Intervention
A child under the age of 3 years old that has been lead poisoned may qualify for early intervention Help Me Grow services, even if they are not showing signs of delay. Call Help Me Grow at 800-755-4769.

Special Education
If a child has learning or behavior problems in school, ask the school to evaluate the child for special education services. Let the school know the child was lead poisoned, and it is impacting the child’s education.

• Put the request in writing.
• Date the request and keep a copy.
• If you are not given a written response within 30 days, contact Legal Aid.

Personal Injury Suit
You may have claims if your child has been lead poisoned. Lawsuits based on lead poisoning may be difficult to prove. Call your local bar association to consult with an attorney who handles personal injury claims.

Contact Legal Aid
Call Legal Aid’s intake line or visit your local Legal Aid office.  Click here for details: www.lasclev.org/contact/

Legal Aid’s Brief Advice Clinics
Want to talk in-person with an attorney? In addition to in-person and phone intake, Legal Aid offers Brief Advice Clinics in neighborhoods throughout Northeast Ohio. At the Clinics you can talk in-person with an attorney and ask questions about your legal problem.

Text 216-242-1544 with the message LAS CLINIC for date and location of next clinic or visit www.lasclev.org for a complete schedule.

Contact the Bar Association
Contact your local bar association for a referral to a private attorney.

• Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association: 216-696-3532
• Lorain County Bar Association: 440-323-8416
• Lake County, Ohio Bar Association: 440-350-5800
• Geauga County Bar Association: 440-286-7160
• Ashtabula County Bar Association: 440-415-4503

Click here for a helpful info card which briefly highlights your rights related to Lead Poisoning.

First steps to prevention

• The most common sources of lead are peeling paint and bare soil.
• Contact your landlord in writing to request a repair of these conditions.

Test your Children

• Ask your pediatrician to test your child for lead poisoning.
• If your child’s blood lead level is above 5 μg/dl there is cause for concern.
• If it is above 10 μg/dl the Department of Health should inspect your home.

Get Help

• If your child is falling behind in school, ask the school in writing to evaluate them for special education and mention their lead
  poisoning. Contact Legal Aid if you do not receive a response within 30 days.
• If your landlord refuses to repair lead hazards, contact Legal Aid.

Text FAQ LEAD to 216.242.1544 for a link to more information, including resources for homeowners.

Many programs help people pay electric, gas, and water bills.

Click here for a helpful brochure from Legal Aid on utility problems.

Click here for a Spanish version of the brochure.

Are you a low-income U.S. Veteran facing problems with:

Money?

• Have your veteran’s benefits been terminated or reduced due to overpayment?
• Have you been denied or terminated from other government benefits? (e.g. Food Stamps, cash assistance, SSI, Unemployment Compensation)
• Do you have debts that cause problems with meeting your needs, for example obtaining utilities, driver’s license, or housing?
• Have you received any letters or notices from the IRS about your federal taxes?

Housing? 

• Have you applied for and been denied a subsidy to help pay for housing?
• Is your rent subsidy being terminated?
• Does your apartment need repairs that your landlord refuses to make?
• Has your landlord given you a notice to leave your apartment or are you being evicted?
• Are you behind on mortgage payments or facing foreclosure?
• Did you receive a shut off notice for your lights, gas, or water?

Family?

• Are you afraid for your safety because of your current or former significant other or household member?
• Are you afraid for your child’s safety?
• Do you have problems paying child support?
• Does your child have problems in school with learning or with behavior?
• Do you have trouble accessing health care?

Health?

• Do you have trouble filling your prescriptions for medication?
• Do you have a criminal record that prevents you from getting a job?

Employment?

• Have you been denied a professional license (e.g. barber, day care provider, STNA?)
• Do you need your driver’s license reinstated in order to work?

If YES, contact The Legal Aid Society of Cleveland for help. Click here for a flyer with more information!

If you are in need of foreclosure assistance and prevention, you can call the Cuyahoga County Foreclosure Prevention Program or “Save the Dream” Program. This brief  brochure includes contact information for both programs as well as other information about The Legal Aid Society and its services.

More information is available in this  short brochure  published by Legal Aid: Resources for Foreclosure Prevention

Evictions are not criminal cases where the defendant can be sent to jail, so, in general, the tenant does not have the right to a court-appointed attorney. Except, tenants who qualify for the new Right to Counsel – Cleveland (RTC-C) program do have the right to a lawyer.

Cleveland City Council passed an ordinance saying that some tenants in Cleveland have the right to be represented by an attorney in their eviction case. Tenants who have at least one child, and income at or below the federal poverty guidelines qualify. If you received eviction papers from Cleveland Municipal Court and believe you qualify for RTC-C program, visit FreeEvictionHelp.org for more information.

Landlords and tenants may hire a private lawyer to represent them. Some tenants who are low income, but do not qualify for RTC-C, may qualify to be represented by a lawyer through the Legal Aid Society of Cleveland. Due to the COVID 19 pandemic, Legal Aid offices are closed to the public. Tenants can apply by calling 1-888-817-3777 during most business hours or online anytime at https://lasclev.org/contact/.

Need legal assistance?

The Legal Aid Society of Cleveland may be able to help. This brochure outlines the areas in which Legal Aid can help you, including Consumer, Education, Family, Housing, and Immigration Law. It provides information on how to learn if you qualify for our services and how to obtain help from Legal Aid.

More information is available in this brochure published by Legal Aid: How Legal Aid Can Help You.

This brochure is also available in Spanish at: Como Le Puede Ayudar Ayuda Legal.

Do you have a claim for $6,000 or less? You can bring a lawsuit without an attorney in a small claims court. Claims can include such things as unpaid wages, security deposits, breaches of contract, defective products, damages in minor auto accidents, or damages to your personal property. This brochure provides information on where and how to file, as well as tips on how to prepare yourself to convince a judge or magistrate that you should get the money you are claiming and how to present yourself in court.

More information is available in this brochure published by Legal Aid:   Taking Your Case to Small Claims Court

This brochure is also available in Spanish at: Cómo presentar su demanda ante el tribunal para casos de menor cuantía.

Were you sued in
Cuyahoga County Common Pleas Court
to collect on a debt?

Free legal help is available!

Thanks to funding from the Ohio Supreme Court’s civil justice grants program, Legal Aid and Cuyahoga County Common Pleas Court are working together on a Consumer Debt Defense Program.

Contact the Court Resource Center at (216) 443-8204 or email courtinfo@cuyahogacounty.us with questions or if you need help.

CLICK HERE for a printable flyer to share.

Are you a low-income U.S. Veteran facing problems with:

Money?

• Have your veteran’s benefits been terminated or reduced due to overpayment?
• Have you been denied or terminated from other government benefits? (e.g. Food Stamps, cash assistance, SSI, Unemployment Compensation)
• Do you have debts that cause problems with meeting your needs, for example obtaining utilities, driver’s license, or housing?
• Have you received any letters or notices from the IRS about your federal taxes?

Housing? 

• Have you applied for and been denied a subsidy to help pay for housing?
• Is your rent subsidy being terminated?
• Does your apartment need repairs that your landlord refuses to make?
• Has your landlord given you a notice to leave your apartment or are you being evicted?
• Are you behind on mortgage payments or facing foreclosure?
• Did you receive a shut off notice for your lights, gas, or water?

Family?

• Are you afraid for your safety because of your current or former significant other or household member?
• Are you afraid for your child’s safety?
• Do you have problems paying child support?
• Does your child have problems in school with learning or with behavior?
• Do you have trouble accessing health care?

Health?

• Do you have trouble filling your prescriptions for medication?
• Do you have a criminal record that prevents you from getting a job?

Employment?

• Have you been denied a professional license (e.g. barber, day care provider, STNA?)
• Do you need your driver’s license reinstated in order to work?

If YES, contact The Legal Aid Society of Cleveland for help. Click here for a flyer with more information!

Do You Need Health Insurance?  Sign up NOW for free or reduced cost health care! Almost everyone in Ohio can get health insurance now under the Affordable Care Act.

Many more Ohioans are now eligible for FREE health care coverage through Medicaid:

• If you are between the ages 19 to 64 years old; and
• If your income is below 138% of the federal poverty level (about $1,321 per month for an individual and about $2,708 per month for a family of 4); and
• Even if you were denied Medicaid in the past…

Apply for Medicaid:

• online at www.benefits.ohio.gov; or
• by phone at 1-800-324-8680; or
• in person at your local County Department of Job and Family Services office.

If you are denied Medicaid by the county or tax credits by the Marketplace, Legal Aid may be able to help you. Call Legal Aid intake at 1-888-817-3777.

CLICK HERE for an informational flyer in both English and Spanish!

Lost your home to foreclosure? Resolved a different debt problem? This brief brochure  explains that you may not have to pay income tax on cancelled debts such as foreclosure, bankruptcy  or insolvency. It also explains the steps you need to take to reduce your taxes.

More information is available in the brochure published by Legal Aid:  Cancelled Debt Brochure.

This information is also available in Spanish at:  Cancelada.

This brochure outlines ways you can effectively deal with debt collectors and includes information on your rights under the Federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act as well as steps to take after a debt collector has contacted you. The brochure tells you what debt collectors cannot do, including harass you, make false statements, or trick you into accepting their phone calls. Also included are sample letters on how to stop contact from a collector and how to ask for verification of your debt.

More information is available in this brochure published by Legal Aid: How to Deal with Debt Collectors

This brochure is also available in Spanish at: Como Tratar Con Los Cobradores De Duedas

To help prevent identity theft and ensure your ability to receive favorable loan interest rates, housing, and a job, you should get your free credit report. This brochure tells you how to obtain your three free credit reports each year from the three credit report companies, TransUnion, Equifax, and Experian. It recommends that you get one credit report from a different company every four months.

More information is available in this brochure published by Legal Aid: Get Your Free Credit Report

Here is the form to send in to the Annual Credit Report Request Service to receive your free report: Credit Report Application Form

Tips for managing debt and avoiding bankruptcy. This brochure provides some advice on how to deal with debt, including seeking help from the Consumer Credit Counseling Service (CCCS). It urges that you avoid payday loans, instant tax refunds, and “rent-to-own” products. These things will end up costing you much more money than they are really worth. Also included are tips on how to spot bad mortgage lenders and brokers. Advice is given on how to manage your debt if you do have to declare bankruptcy.

More information is available in this brochure published by Legal Aid: Be Smart About Managing Your Debt

This information is also available in Spanish: Se Cauteloso al Manejar Sus Deudas.

Considering Bankruptcy? There are some basics you should know. This brochure describes what bankruptcy is and some requirements for filing for bankruptcy. It outlines the differences between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy, including an explanation of what property may be exempt in a Chapter 7 bankruptcy. Also included is information on what bankruptcy can and cannot do for you and reasons why you might not have to file bankruptcy.

More information is available in this brochure published by Legal Aid: Bankruptcy for Low-Income Persons.

This brochure is also available in Spanish at: Bancarrota Para Personas De Bajos Ingresos.

In Ohio, a guardianship is an involuntary proceeding where a family member or other concerned person asks a Probate Court to protect someone who appears to be incompetent.  Probate Court can appoint a guardian for a minor or adult (called a ward) who is not able to manage his or her own affairs because of young age, advanced age, substance abuse, or physical or mental disability.

Learn more about the definitions of “guardian” and “ward”, the responsibilities of a guardian, the rights of a ward, when a guardianship is necessary, and what to do when a ward disagrees with a guardian or no longer needs a guardian in this brochure published by Legal Aid.

Ohio Guardianship (English)

Tutela en Ohio (Español)

Are you a low-income U.S. Veteran facing problems with:

Money:

• Have you been denied VA benefits because of a less than honorable discharge?
• Have your veteran’s benefits been terminated or reduced due to an overpayment?
• Have you been denied or terminated from other government benefits? (e.g. Food Stamps, cash assistance, SSI, Unemployment Compensation)
• Do you have debts that cause problems with meeting your needs, for example obtaining utilities, driver’s license, or housing?
• Have you received any letters or notices from the IRS about your federal taxes?
• Is the VA trying to collect money from you?

Housing?

• Have you applied for and been denied a subsidy to help pay for housing?
• Is your rent subsidy being terminated?
• Does your apartment need repairs that your landlord refuses to make?
• Has your landlord given you a notice to leave your apartment or are you being evicted?
• Are you behind on mortgage payments or facing foreclosure?

Family?

• Are you afraid for your safety because of someone who lives with you?
• Are you afraid for your child’s safety?
• Does your child have problems in school with learning or with behavior?

Health?

• Do you have trouble accessing health care because of your discharge status?
• Do you have trouble filling your prescriptions for medication?

Employment?

• Do you have a criminal record that prevents you from getting a job?
• Have you been denied a professional license (e.g. barber, day care provider, STNA?)
• Do you need your driver’s license reinstated in order to work?

If YES, contact The Legal Aid Society of Cleveland for help. Choose the option easiest for you from the other side of this flyer. When you contact Legal Aid, remember:

• You will have to provide income information to determine your eligibility for services (Legal Aid only serves people who have a low income in Cuyahoga, Ashtabula, Geauga, Lake and Lorain Counties);
• You will have to provide copies of any relevant papers and Legal Aid will often send you papers to sign and return before they can help you; and Legal Aid will try to offer information and assistance whenever possible.

Click here for an informative flyer you can print and share with others!

A representative payee (“rep payee”) is a person appointed by the Social Security Administration (SSA) to manage you Social Security or SSI benefits. SSA will only appoint a rep payee if they believe that you are not able to manage your money so that all of your food, clothing and housing needs are met.

This brochure will help you understand what a rep payee is, who can be a payee, what they are supposed to do for you, and your rights with a rep payee.

More information is available in this brochure published by Legal Aid: What I Should Know If I Have a Rep Payee

Farmers may apply with the U.S. government to hire workers from other countries on temporary work visas called H2A visas. Not all work visas are H2A visas. If you are not sure what kind of visa you have, check your passport or other immigration documents.

H2A workers with questions about taxes or getting an ITIN for a dependent should call The Legal Aid Society of Cleveland. Legal Aid has a Low Income Taxpayer Clinic (LITC) that may be able to help. Please call Legal Aid at 1.888.817.3777.

More information is available in this bilingual brochure published by Legal Aid: Tax Help for H2A Workers / Ayuda con los Impuestos para Trabajadores/as H2A

If you are an immigrant and have been a victim of crime, Legal Aid may be able to assist  you with asserting your rights under  immigration laws. This brochure  outlines U-Visas for victims of Crime, Special Immigrant Juvenile Status,  and T-Visas for human trafficking. This brochure also discusses how immigrants  can assert their  rights under the Violence Against Women Act.

More information is available in multiple languages in this brochure published by Legal Aid:  Legal Help for Immigrant Victims of Crime

A Spanish version of this brochure is available by clicking here: Spanish Version – Legal Help for Immigrant Victims of Crime

This brochure outlines what Legal Aid can do for Immigrants in Northeast Ohio. Legal Aid can assist many immigrants to the U.S., not just citizens or permanent residents, and works on  cases such as detainee and deportation, and naturalization and citizenship. This brochure explains what Legal Aid can  assist immigrants and their families with.

More information is available in multiple languages in this brochure published by Legal Aid: Legal Assistance for Immigrants

Legal Aid may be able to help you with your immigration situation if you cannot afford an attorney. This brochure outlines the rights immigration detainees have, including the right to speak with an attorney about their cases, the right to request release from custody on bond, the right to contact their country’s Consulate or Embassy, and the right to contact family members. Also included are important contact numbers that may help in resolving your immigration issue.

This brochure is available in both English and Spanish at: Notice for Immigration Detainees in Northeast Ohio/ Aviso a los Detenidos de Inmigración en el Nordeste de Ohio.

The Cleveland Metropolitan School District has agreed to provide interpretation and translation services to students and parents with material related to schooling. This flyer explains what  services the Cleveland School district has agreed to provide.

This flyer is available in both English and Spanish at: Language Access for Parents/Acceso lingüístico para los padres.

Are you the victim of domestic abuse or violence? This brochure describes what domestic violence is, provides the numbers of local and national domestic violence hotlines, and outlines steps to take if you are a victim of abuse. It explains the importance of a Criminal Temporary Protection Order (TPO) and Civil Protection Order (CPO), the differences between the two, and how to file for each. The brochure also describes how to press for criminal charges and what to do if charges are filed and the abuser is convicted.

More information is available in this brochure published by Legal Aid: Domestic Violence: What Is It? What Can You Do About It?

This brochure is also available in Spanish at: Violencia Doméstica:  ¿Qué es?  ¿Qué puede hacer usted acerca de esto?

Were you sued in
Cuyahoga County Common Pleas Court
to collect on a debt?

Free legal help is available!

Thanks to funding from the Ohio Supreme Court’s civil justice grants program, Legal Aid and Cuyahoga County Common Pleas Court are working together on a Consumer Debt Defense Program.

Contact the Court Resource Center at (216) 443-8204 or email courtinfo@cuyahogacounty.us with questions or if you need help.

CLICK HERE for a printable flyer to share.

Click here for a quick and easy “Know Your Rights” reference card (in English and Spanish, updated 10/2020) with COVID-19 legal info related to housing, employment, money, benefits, immigration, education and family issues.

Need a volume of these info cards?  Call 216-861-5889 to request some for use in community distribution of food boxes, home school packets and for use with other outreach.

Click here for a quick and easy reference (in English and Spanish, updated 10/2020) with how to ask questions or get legal help during the coronavirus pandemic.

This flyer is printable for use by community partners in food boxes, home school packets and for use with other outreach.

Every Worker has Rights at Work, Including Undocumented Workers

Minimum Wage: Most workers have the right to be paid the current minimum wage in Ohio. For the current rate, check: https://www.dol.gov/whd/minwage/america.htm

If you make tips at work, the amount you make in tips plus the amount you make per hour must add up to at least the minimum wage rate.

Overtime Pay: Most workers have the right to overtime pay when they work over 40 hours in a workweek. The overtime rate is one and one-half (1½) times your rate of pay. For example, a $10/ hour regular rate would be a $15/hour overtime rate ($10 x 1.5 = $15).

Discrimination and Sexual Harassment: You have the right to a workplace that is free from sexual harassment and discrimination based on your race, color, sex (including pregnancy), religion, disability, national origin, ancestry, military status and age.

You also have the right to participate in any claim or investigation about these issues.

Organizing: You have the right to organize a union at work and talk about unionizing during nonwork hours (breaks). You also have the right to talk to your supervisor about problems at work that affect you or your coworkers.

Safety: You have the right to a safe workplace. Your work must provide and require the use of proper safety gear and safeguards. You cannot be forced to enter any workplace that is unsafe. You cannot be forced to perform work without proper safety gear or safeguards.

How to Protect Yourself

Document! Keep your own records of (1) what days you worked; (2) how many hours you worked each day; and (3) whether you took any breaks and how long.  Always compare your pay rate on your paystub to what you were actually paid and document any difference between the two.

Know Who You Are Working For!  Know the address and phone number for your workplace and the name of your supervisor.

Get Help! Get help as soon as you can when you believe that something may be wrong.

What to Do if Your Employer Owes You Pay

Call Legal Aid at 888.817.3777 or 216.687.1900.

File a complaint with the State of Ohio Bureau of Wage and Hour Administration at 614.644.2239.

Call the U.S. Department of Labor, Wage and Hour Division at 866.487.9243 or 216.357.5400.

File a lawsuit in Small Claims Court for up to $6,000 in unpaid wages, plus interest and costs.

What to Do if You Were Discriminated Against or You Were Punished for Speaking Up About Your Rights

Call Legal Aid at 888.817.3777 or 216.687.1900.

If you were discriminated against, file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) at 800.669.4000 or the Ohio Civil Rights Commission (OCRC) at 216.787.3150.

If your right to organize was violated, file a complaint with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) at 216.522.3715.

What to Do if Your Workplace is Unsafe

Notify your supervisor or the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) at 216.447.4194.

Ask OSHA to inspect your workplace.

If you were discriminated against or punished because you filed a safety complaint with OSHA, you have 30 days to inform OSHA of the discrimination or retaliation by filing an additional complaint.

Request copies of your medical records from your doctor and collect other records that document your exposure to toxic or harmful chemicals.

What to Do if You Were Hurt on the Job

As soon as you are hurt:

1. 1. Get medical help;
   2. Tell your work you have been hurt. Let your supervisor know you have been hurt and ask if you need to fill out an accident report;
   3. Tell your doctor or emergency room the name of your health care organization that handles workers’ compensation claims. If you don’t know, find out from your workplace. This helps ensure your injury is counted as work related;
   4. Tell your pharmacist that any prescriptions you receive are related to treatment for an Ohio Worker’s Compensation claim;
   5. File a Workers’ Compensation claim with the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation.

What more info?

More information is available in this brochure published by Legal Aid: Employment Law

Federal income tax problem? Legal Aid may be able to help you.

Legal Aid’s Low Income Taxpayer Clinic (LITC) assists low-income taxpayers in resolving their disputes with the IRS about federal income tax matters.

We provide free legal services to people whose income is too small to hire a private attorney. If you have a tax problem with the IRS, please contact us to discuss it. Depending upon your circumstance, we may assist you with education, negotiation, and litigation.

Click here for the full brochure: Low Income Taxpayer Clinic (LITC)

In Ohio, adult convictions generally cannot be “expunged” or completely erased from your record.  Instead of expungement, Ohio uses a court process called “sealing a criminal record.” If your record is sealed, you do not have to disclose your conviction, arrest, or any charge against you when you apply for most jobs. Under Ohio law, once the record is sealed, it is as if the offense never occurred.

Even sealed records will be available to some employers for some jobs. For example, your convictions, even if sealed, may disqualify you from a job working with children, older persons, developmentally disabled persons, or from a job that has a substantial connection with your offense. You must report sealed records when enlisting in the military. The Ohio Bureau of Criminal Identification and Investigation (BCI) keeps a record of all sealed criminal records.

More information is available in this brochure published by Legal Aid: Sealing an Ohio Criminal Record

Click here for the Spanish Version: Sellar un Antecedente Penales en Ohio

If you are a self-employed individual, the only shareholder in an S Corporation or a single member LLC, the Low Income Taxpayer Clinic (LITC) at Legal Aid may be able to provide you with federal tax assistance and to refer you to others for free assistance with tax preparation and business development. Legal Aid provides free legal services and direction to people, not business entities, whose income is too small to hire a private attorney.

CLICK HERE for a brochure!

Self-employed individuals have several tax obligations. The self-employed are required to file an annual return and pay estimated tax on a quarterly basis. A penalty may be assessed by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) if taxes are not paid throughout the year. The IRS has an Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS) that makes it easier for self-employed taxpayers to make quarterly payments by allowing a taxpayer to schedule automatic estimated payments up to one year in advance. The IRS also provides a Self-Employed Individuals Tax Center that can be accessed for help at https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/self-employed-individuals-tax-center.

Self-employed individuals also must pay a self-employment tax, in addition to income tax if net earnings are $400 or more. Self-employment tax primarily is a Social Security and Medicare tax for individuals who work for themselves. The tax rate is 12.4% for Social Security and 2.9% for Medicare taxes. It always is a good idea to review the IRS instructions for Schedule SE (self-employment) before preparing and submitting IRS Form 1040. The Social Security Administration uses the information from Schedule SE to figure the self-employed individual’s benefits under the social security program.

Legal Aid’s LITC can assist self-employed individuals with IRS tax problems. Legal Aid can negotiate with the IRS to obtain a reasonable payment plan and/or offer in compromise that may reduce your tax burden; if your current expenses exceed your income, you may qualify for currently not collectible status. When your case must go to court, we can represent you.

After receiving the appropriate guidance, the low-income entrepreneur can establish and maintain his/her own job when there are few labor market options, create wealth and economic security, and achieve upward economic mobility demonstrating success among the 3.6 million existing small businesses.

Legal Aid’s LITC does not prepare and file tax returns. A list of free tax preparers is posted on our website at www.lasclev.org/taxpreplocations. And, learn more about Legal Aid’s tax law practice: www.lasclev.org/get-help/special-programs/low-incometaxpayer-clinic

Are you a low-income U.S. Veteran facing problems with:

Money?

• Have your veteran’s benefits been terminated or reduced due to overpayment?
• Have you been denied or terminated from other government benefits? (e.g. Food Stamps, cash assistance, SSI, Unemployment Compensation)
• Do you have debts that cause problems with meeting your needs, for example obtaining utilities, driver’s license, or housing?
• Have you received any letters or notices from the IRS about your federal taxes?

Housing? 

• Have you applied for and been denied a subsidy to help pay for housing?
• Is your rent subsidy being terminated?
• Does your apartment need repairs that your landlord refuses to make?
• Has your landlord given you a notice to leave your apartment or are you being evicted?
• Are you behind on mortgage payments or facing foreclosure?
• Did you receive a shut off notice for your lights, gas, or water?

Family?

• Are you afraid for your safety because of your current or former significant other or household member?
• Are you afraid for your child’s safety?
• Do you have problems paying child support?
• Does your child have problems in school with learning or with behavior?
• Do you have trouble accessing health care?

Health?

• Do you have trouble filling your prescriptions for medication?
• Do you have a criminal record that prevents you from getting a job?

Employment?

• Have you been denied a professional license (e.g. barber, day care provider, STNA?)
• Do you need your driver’s license reinstated in order to work?

If YES, contact The Legal Aid Society of Cleveland for help. Click here for a flyer with more information!

Farmers may apply with the U.S. government to hire workers from other countries on temporary work visas called H2A visas. Not all work visas are H2A visas. If you are not sure what kind of visa you have, check your passport or other immigration documents.

H2A workers with questions about taxes or getting an ITIN for a dependent should call The Legal Aid Society of Cleveland. Legal Aid has a Low Income Taxpayer Clinic (LITC) that may be able to help. Please call Legal Aid at 1.888.817.3777.

More information is available in this bilingual brochure published by Legal Aid: Tax Help for H2A Workers / Ayuda con los Impuestos para Trabajadores/as H2A

Immigrants should file taxes for several reasons.

More information is available in this brochure published by Legal Aid: Filing Taxes Can Help Immigrants

This brochure is also available in Spanish at: Presentar Declaración de Impuestos Puede Ayudar a los/as Inmigrantes

Consult with a qualified tax preparer or a tax attorney if you have questions about filing tax returns. You may be able to find free tax preparation help by calling 211.

Lost your home to foreclosure? Resolved a different debt problem? This brief brochure  explains that you may not have to pay income tax on cancelled debts such as foreclosure, bankruptcy  or insolvency. It also explains the steps you need to take to reduce your taxes.

More information is available in the brochure published by Legal Aid:  Cancelled Debt Brochure.

This information is also available in Spanish at:  Cancelada.

If you are low-income, you may be eligible for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). The EITC is a special credit to assist some working people. It can mean a refund for you or a reduction in the amount of income tax you pay.

More information is available in this brochure published by Legal Aid: The IRS may owe you money through the EITC.

This brochure is also available in Spanish at: El IRS puede Deberle Dinero a Través del Crédito por Ingreso Del Trabajo.

Are you recently unemployed? You can receive unemployment compensation benefits if you are unemployed (1) due to lack of work (laid off), (2) you were discharged without just cause, or (3) you quit  with just cause. This brochure outlines how to apply for unemployment benefits, what a Determination is, and how you can appeal an unfavorable Determination. Also included is information on what happens after a Redetermination is issued and steps you must take to continue receiving unemployment benefits after you apply. For more information and to apply for benefits online, you can visit https://unemployment.ohio.gov.

More information is available in this brochure published by Legal Aid: What You Need to Know About Unemployment Benefits

This brochure is also available in Spanish at: Lo que usted debe Conocer Acerca del Beneficio de Desempleo

Have you been paid late or not at all? Are you not receiving minimum wage or overtime pay? Have you not received you last paycheck? This short flyer contains numbers you can call if you need work-related legal help. You might also want to view Legal Aid’s brochure: Can’t Get Your Last Pay Check?

More information is available in English and Spanish at: Need Legal Help With Your Job?

Lost your job and your former employer will not give you your last paycheck? Here are some steps you can take. This brochure explains what you should do if you cannot get your last paycheck. (1) Remember to give back all company property, (2) wait until your regular payday has passed, and (3) make a request for your paycheck in writing if your payday has passed. If that  doesn’t  work, you may file a complaint with the Ohio Wage and Hour Bureau, call Legal Aid, or go to Small Claims Court.  Contact information is  included.

More information is available in this brochure published by Legal Aid: Can’t Get Your Last Pay Check?