In March 2008, JE launched this program, which identifies and promotes local employers that pay a Living Wage.  In December 2008, Just Economics expanded the Certification Program to Transylvania County.  The Living Wage Coalition of Transylvania County, a committe of Just Economics, is assisting with outreach to Transylvania County employers.

The Certification Program aims to reward existing Living Wage businesses in our community, to encourage non-living wage compliant employers to increase their workers’ wages, and to connect consumers to socially responsible employers.  Living Wage Certification also helps bolster community dialog and consciousness around the living wage issue, as we have seen on other issues such as organic food and environmental sustainability.

Criteria for Certification

1. Endorse the Living Wage concept.
2. Pay at least the current Asheville/Buncombe Living Wage to all regular full- and part-time employees.
3. A Certified employer may pay a wage that is less than the living wage to part-time employees who are under 18 years old; to employees who are in a probationary period or hired temporarily (limited to 3 months); and to employees and volunteers paid by others.
4. A certified employer may use benefits that are provided to employees, such as health insurance, tips, union membership, pensions, discounts, generous leave policies, etc., as an offset to the wage criteria.

Benefits of Certification

- “Living Wage Certified” emblem for display at your place of business/office.

- Free publicity through annual advertisements in local media outlets.

- Free promotion of your business/organization through the Just Economics member mailing list, printed materials, and website.

- Special profile of your business/organization on the Just Economics website.

- Participation in high-profile press conferences and JE events aimed at promoting the Living Wage Employer Certification Program and its member employers.

- Being part of a growing network of local employers dedicated to building a more sustainable economy.

How to Get Certified

1. Endorse the living wage concept
2. Pay all workers at least the current Asheville-Buncombe Living Wage
3. Fill out the Enrollment Form

Certification Enrollment Materials

Living Wage Certification Brochure and Enrollment Form

Buncombe County Living Wage Brochure

Transylvania County Living Wage Brochure

Living Wage Certified Employers