My last paycheck never came after I quit. What can I do?

Concerns & risks

You quit, turned in your badge, and payday came and went with nothing.

Some states have strict final-pay deadlines and penalties, but you have to act.

Causes & evidence

Final paycheck timing is set by state law, not federal law. Background: wage and hour basics. Laws differ by state and country, so treat this as general info, not legal advice.

What to do

1. Look up your state's final paycheck rule on your state labor department site.
2. Email HR or payroll with dates and amount owed.
3. No response? File a wage claim with your state labor department.
4. Small amounts can also go to small claims court.

Common mistakes: Common mistakes: waiting months before asking. State rules on final pay timing vary, so check your state labor department. Ask in writing first, then file a wage claim if needed. Keep your last pay stub, schedule and any resignation email; they make a wage claim much easier to prove.

Speed Man tip: Keep your last pay stub and resignation email. That's your proof.

Wrap-up: States set final-paycheck deadlines. Ask in writing first. File a state wage claim if ignored.