TNTennessee final paycheck law
If you are fired in Tennessee, your final pay is due by the next regular payday or within 21 days of the last day, whichever is later. If you quit, it is due by the next regular payday or within 21 days of the last day, whichever is later.
| If you | Your last check is due |
|---|---|
| were fired or laid off | Next regular payday or within 21 days of the last day, whichever is later |
| quit | Next regular payday or within 21 days of the last day, whichever is later |
| 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 | None automatic. Claims through the Tennessee Department of Labor. |
| want to read the law | Tenn. Code 50-2-103(g)checked October 29, 2026 |
When is my last check due? Tennessee 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 Tennessee. When do I get my last check?
Next regular payday or within 21 days of the last day, whichever is later.
I quit my job in Tennessee. When do I get my last check?
Next regular payday or within 21 days of the last day, whichever is later.
What if my employer pays my last check late in Tennessee?
None automatic. Claims through the Tennessee Department of Labor.
Will my unused vacation be in my last check in Tennessee?
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 Tennessee 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 Tennessee labor office.