MTMontana final paycheck law
If you are fired in Montana, your final pay is due immediately, within 4 hours or by the end of the business day, whichever comes first. If you quit, it is due by the next regular payday or within 15 days, whichever is earlier.
| If you | Your last check is due |
|---|---|
| were fired or laid off | Immediately, within 4 hours or by the end of the business day, whichever comes first (a written policy may extend to the next payday or 15 days) |
| quit | Next regular payday or within 15 days, whichever is earlier |
| have unused vacation | It must be paid. Earned vacation is wages and must be paid when you leave the job. General PTO banks follow the written policy. |
| are paid late | Penalty of up to 110% of the unpaid wages if you file a wage complaint. |
| want to read the law | MCA 39-3-205, 39-3-206checked October 29, 2026 |
When is my last check due? Montana calculator
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 Montana. When do I get my last check?
Immediately, within 4 hours or by the end of the business day, whichever comes first (a written policy may extend to the next payday or 15 days). It must include the vacation you earned but did not use.
I quit my job in Montana. When do I get my last check?
Next regular payday or within 15 days, whichever is earlier.
What if my employer pays my last check late in Montana?
Penalty of up to 110% of the unpaid wages if you file a wage complaint.
Will my unused vacation be in my last check in Montana?
Yes, the law requires it. Earned vacation is wages and must be paid when you leave the job. General PTO banks follow the written policy. See Montana 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 Montana labor office.