OK so i used to work for bank X on a shift pattern for which I received a %age uplift on my base salary.
Bank X was bought by Bank Y. Shortly before the takeover I stopped doing shift work and just did 9-5.
When i received my new contract from Bank Y, the same %age allowance was included in my remuneration.
Because the allowance was included in my new contract I did not think I was being overpaid.
My employer has now asked why i didn't tell them I was being overpaid, and I told them i thought it was part of my contract.
I understand an employers right to claim back overpaid wages (as long as it was my mistake, i knew I was being overpaid and i haven't spent it), but as it's in my contract would it even been an overpayment? And could they dismiss me? I didn't fraudulently claim, my pay is automatic each month based on my annual salary+benefits.
The contract does not define what the shift allowance is for, or when it would start/stop. I just presumed it was a benefit that had to be carried over by Bank Y when they bought bank X.
I am primarily worried about loosing my job, but if i do keep my job they may ask me to payback an amount that is equal to about 60% of my annual salary!
Please help