Talking with coworkers about pay and conditions
The National Labor Relations Board describes a right to act with co-workers to address work-related issues, such as talking with co-workers about wages, benefits or other working conditions, or circulating a petition. It calls this "protected concerted activity". Not every worker or employer is covered, so check the NLRB pages.
Can my employer ban talking about pay?
For most private-sector employees, rules that stop employees from discussing pay with each other can conflict with the NLRA. The NLRB explains the protections.
Does it need a union?
No. Protected concerted activity can happen without a union.
Where do I report a violation?
The National Labor Relations Board.
Official sources to check
This page is general information, not legal advice. Laws change and differ by state and city. Last reviewed October 2026. How answers are made
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