Final Paycheck Deadline by State

If your final paycheck is late

• Put your demand in writing with a copy of this deadline — most payroll departments pay fast once they see you know the rule.
• In penalty states (California, Colorado, Massachusetts, Oregon and others), the meter may be running: every day late can add to what they owe you.
• Your state labor department takes wage claims for free — and the federal DOL covers everyone.
• Unpaid commissions, accrued vacation (in many states), and expense reimbursements belong in the same demand.