NJNew Jersey final paycheck law
If you are fired in New Jersey, your final pay is due by the next regular payday. If you quit, it is due by the next regular payday.
Next paydayif fired or laid off
Next paydayif you quit
Per policyunused vacation
| If you | Your last check is due |
|---|---|
| were fired or laid off | Next regular payday |
| quit | Next regular payday |
| have unused vacation | It is paid if your employer's written policy says so. Unused vacation is wages only if the employer's policy, agreement or union contract says so. |
| are paid late | Wage Theft Act: an extra penalty payment up to 200% of unpaid wages if you file a wage complaint. |
| want to read the law | N.J.S.A. 34:11-4.3checked October 29, 2026 |
When is my last check due? New Jersey 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 New Jersey. When do I get my last check?
Next regular payday.
I quit my job in New Jersey. When do I get my last check?
Next regular payday.
What if my employer pays my last check late in New Jersey?
Wage Theft Act: an extra penalty payment up to 200% of unpaid wages if you file a wage complaint.
Will my unused vacation be in my last check in New Jersey?
Only if your employer's written policy or your contract says so. Unused vacation is wages only if the employer's policy, agreement or union contract says so. See New Jersey 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 New Jersey labor office.