(https://cleanclothes.org/ le-repository/underpaid-in-the-pandemic.pdf) How can brands make sure all workers are paid what they are owed? Brands should develop and support fair, inclusive, objective, and transparent processes for verifying eligibility for and disbursement of wage payments. The process should cover all workers whether employed, furloughed, dismissed, or terminated, and workers should be paid through through wage slips that re-enforce the employment relationships. For factories that are re-opening pay-roll review combined with transparency will be critical. Brands are strongly encouraged to do this collectively, for example through: Identi cation of common suppliers and determination of lead brands to undertake joint investigations (for example through payroll review) to determine the amount of wages and bene ts left outstanding. Setting up a means of sharing information between brands, and of taking collective action to improve liquidity, ensure nances are available, and to monitor whether these are used for actual wage payments. Determine a means for cost-sharing that can be applied across suppliers when workers are still not being paid. What does "wages and bene ts” mean? Wages include legally mandates payments such as holiday bonuses. Bene ts include sickness, maternity, severance and unemployment bene ts. Shouldn't brands and retailers rather make sure workers receive a living wage?