HR Form of the Week: Final Pay Requirements by State

Posted By: Guardian HR Staff Posted On: October 1, 2023 Share:

Each week, we will feature a different document from our forms library and provide information about where to find it, what it's used for, and any necessary instructions. With this program, you'll always be one step ahead of the game when it comes to finding the forms you need.

This week, the HR Form of the Week is The Final Pay Requirements by State.

For clients with access to the Forms Library, you can locate the document as follows:

Final pay requirements can differ from state to state and even within a state’s municipalities. Aside from following federal laws, many states have their own employment laws and regulations that govern how employers must handle final paychecks for employees who are leaving their jobs. Some of the key differences that may vary from state to state include:

  1. Timing of Final Pay: States may have different deadlines for when an employer must provide a final paycheck to a departing employee. Some states require immediate payment on the last day of work, while others allow a certain number of days (e.g., within a few days or the next regular payday).
  2. Payment Methods: Some states may specify the methods by which an employer can provide the final paycheck, such as direct deposit, paper check, or other means. Others may allow more flexibility.
  3. Unused Vacation or PTO: Rules regarding the payout of unused vacation days or paid time off (PTO) upon termination can vary. Some states require employers to pay out accrued but unused time, while others do not.
  4. Deductions: The types of deductions that can be made from a final paycheck may differ by state. Some states may limit the deductions that can be taken, while others allow for a broader range of deductions.
  5. Notice Requirements: In some states, employers may be required to provide advance notice to employees about their final pay and the terms of separation.
  6. Penalties for Noncompliance: States may impose penalties on employers that fail to comply with their final pay requirements, which can include additional compensation owed to the employee or fines for the employer.

It's essential to be aware of the specific final pay laws and to comply with them to avoid potential legal issues. This weeks HR Form of the Week provides for a State-by-State overview chart that also includes local laws.

We hope you find this information valuable and that it helps to make your HR experience easier and more efficient.

How to download the HR Form of the Week: 

  1. Click the "Final Pay Requirements by State" button
  2. Click "File"
  3. Click "Download"


Click Here to Download the Final Pay Requirements by State

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Guardian HR Staff

Guardian HR Staff

In-House Writing Team

Read informative articles, insights, and other resources right from the experts on the Guardian HR team.