MNMinnesota final paycheck law
If you are fired in Minnesota, your final pay is due within 24 hours of asking for your pay in writing. If you quit, it is due by the next payday.
Within 24 hoursif fired or laid off
Next paydayif you quit
Per policyunused vacation
| If you | Your last check is due |
|---|---|
| were fired or laid off | Within 24 hours of asking for your pay in writing |
| quit | Next payday. Up to 20 days if the payday falls within 5 days of the last day |
| have unused vacation | It is paid if your employer's written policy says so. The employer's written policy or contract governs payout of unused vacation. |
| are paid late | If not paid within 24 hours of demand, average daily wages continue as a penalty for up to 15 days. |
| want to read the law | Minn. Stat. 181.13, 181.14checked October 29, 2026 |
When is my last check due? Minnesota calculator
What you are owedupdates as you type
What these words mean
- Final paycheck
- The last pay you are owed after a job ends: all hours worked and, in some states, your unused vacation.
- Late-pay penalty
- Extra money some states make an employer pay when your final check is late.
- Payout
- Being paid cash for paid time off you earned but never used.
- Wage complaint
- A free claim you file with your state labor office or the U.S. Department of Labor when you are not paid what the law requires.
Questions
I was fired in Minnesota. When do I get my last check?
Within 24 hours of asking for your pay in writing.
I quit my job in Minnesota. When do I get my last check?
Next payday. Up to 20 days if the payday falls within 5 days of the last day.
What if my employer pays my last check late in Minnesota?
If not paid within 24 hours of demand, average daily wages continue as a penalty for up to 15 days.
Will my unused vacation be in my last check in Minnesota?
Only if your employer's written policy or your contract says so. The employer's written policy or contract governs payout of unused vacation. See Minnesota PTO payout rules.
Can my employer keep my last check until I return my uniform or laptop?
No. Money you earned is yours. An employer can only take out what the law or a signed agreement allows. If the check is late, file a free wage complaint with the Minnesota labor office.