Rhode Island General Laws Title 28. Labor and Labor Relations § 28-14-24. Set-off of money owed by employee to employer

(a) In any action for unpaid wages brought under the provisions of this chapter, the employer-debtor shall not deduct as a set-off or counterclaim:

(b) Provided, that any employer granting the employee a loan or advance against future earnings or wages may deduct the loan as a set-off or counterclaim if evidenced by a statement in writing signed by the employee. Nothing in this section shall be construed to limit or restrict in any way any rights which the employer now has to recover, by a separate legal action, any money owed the employer by the employee.