If you’ve been working for an employer for a while, you likely know when to expect your wages. However, if your employer is late in paying you, you may wonder how long you should wait before taking action. This issue affects many workers, and it’s a valid concern. Fortunately, employers cannot decide when to pay you. State laws govern when and how employers must pay you for your earned wages.
Legal Obligations for Timely Payment
First and foremost, employers must pay employees on time, following the terms in their employment contracts or company policies. Federal law, enforced by the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), mandates that employers pay for all hours worked. Failing to comply can result in serious legal consequences. Additionally, employers must stick to the payment schedule in their contracts and cannot change pay dates without prior notice.
Common Reasons for Payment Delays
Employers may delay payments for various reasons. Understanding these reasons can help you evaluate your situation and decide how to respond. Common causes of payment delays include:
- Cash Flow Issues: For instance, employers may face temporary financial challenges that affect payroll, especially during economic downturns or when revenue is low.
- Administrative Errors: Moreover, mistakes in payroll processing, such as incorrect data entry or software glitches, can lead to payment delays.
- Disputes Over Hours Worked: Employers may also withhold payment if they dispute the number of hours worked or the type of work performed. This is particularly common in industries where hours fluctuate significantly.
- Retaliation or Discrimination: In some cases, employers may delay payments as retaliation against employees who raise concerns about workplace conditions or file complaints about discrimination or harassment.
Consequences for Employers Who Delay Payments
When an employer fails to pay on time, they face legal repercussions. Employees can file complaints with state labor boards or the Department of Labor. If found in violation of wage laws, employers might have to pay back wages, fines, and penalties for willful violations.
Furthermore, employers may also suffer reputational damage. Employees often share negative experiences with colleagues and online, harming the company’s ability to attract and retain talent. Additionally, frequent payment delays can lead to higher turnover rates as employees seek more reliable employment.
The Impact of Payment Delays on Employees
Payment delays can create significant financial strain. Consequently, employees may struggle to cover living expenses such as rent, utilities, and groceries. This financial pressure often leads to stress, anxiety, and frustration, negatively impacting overall well-being.
Steps to Take If Your Employer Pays You Late
If your employer pays you late, consider taking the following steps:
- Review Your Employment Contract: First, familiarize yourself with the payment terms outlined in your contract.
- Document the Delay: Next, keep records of pay dates and any related correspondence. This documentation is vital if you need to take further action.
- Communicate with Your Employer: Then, discuss the issue directly with your supervisor or HR department. Sometimes, a simple conversation can resolve the problem.
- Seek Legal Advice: If the issue continues, consult an employment attorney for guidance on your rights and potential actions.
Understanding Your Rights as an Employee
As an employee, knowing your rights regarding late payments is essential. Laws protect you from unfair treatment related to wage payments. Depending on your state, you may have additional protections, such as the right to file a complaint with the state labor department or pursue legal action for unpaid wages. Thus, understanding these rights can empower you to advocate for yourself effectively.
The Role of Employment Attorneys
If your employer continues to pay late despite your efforts, consider seeking help from an employment attorney. These legal professionals specialize in labor law and can guide your next steps. They can help you understand your legal options and may assist in filing a wage claim if necessary. Furthermore, an attorney can also advise you on potential retaliation you might face after reporting the issue, ensuring your rights are protected throughout the process.
Late Pay & State Law: Tennessee and Missouri
Most states have payday laws that specify how often employees must be paid. These laws vary somewhat, but they generally require employers to pay as soon as possible after the pay period ends or on the date specified in the employment contract.
In Tennessee, for example, employers must pay any wages earned before the 16th of the month by the 5th of the following month. Conversely, wages earned after the 16th are due by the 20th of the following month. Employers can choose to pay more frequently if they wish.
Most other states require employees to be paid weekly, biweekly, semi-monthly, or monthly. Some states provide exceptions for employers in specific industries or those that qualify as exempt from these requirements.
What to Do If Your Employer Is Late Paying You
Generally speaking, if your pay is only a few days late and it doesn’t happen often, it might not be worth your time to take action. However, if your pay is consistently late or so delayed that you can’t meet your financial obligations, seek legal counsel.
You may be entitled to file a claim against your employer with the state labor agency to recover unpaid wages. Alternatively, you can file a civil lawsuit for the amount owed. You may also recover liquidated damages and legal costs, in addition to your late wages.
Contact an Experienced Employment Law Attorney
If your employer is paying you unreasonably late or not paying regularly, you may need legal help. An attorney can inform you of your rights under state payday laws and assist you in pursuing what you are owed. To learn about your options, contact an experienced employment law attorney in your state.