Final Paycheck Laws in District of Columbia
When a District of Columbia employer must pay your last paycheck if you are fired, laid off or quit, and whether unused vacation must be paid out.
Short answer: By the next working day after discharge. If the employee handled the employer's money, the employer may take up to 4 days to check the accounts. D.C. Code § 32-1303(1), (4)
| Final paycheck if fired or laid off | By the next working day after discharge. If the employee handled the employer's money, the employer may take up to 4 days to check the accounts. Late payment can add liquidated damages of 10% of unpaid wages per working day, up to three times the unpaid wages. Re-verified 2026-10-27. Source: D.C. Code § 32-1303(1), (4) |
|---|---|
| Final paycheck if you quit | By the next regular payday or within 7 days after quitting, whichever is earlier (for employees without a written contract longer than 30 days). Re-verified 2026-10-27. Source: D.C. Code § 32-1303(2) |
Where to get help in District of Columbia
More District of Columbia employment law
- Minimum Wage in District of Columbia
- Meal and Rest Break Laws in District of Columbia
- Wrongful Termination in District of Columbia
- Paid Sick Leave in District of Columbia
- Non-Compete Agreements in District of Columbia
- All District of Columbia employment law rules
FAQ
When do I get my final paycheck if I'm fired in District of Columbia?
By the next working day after discharge. If the employee handled the employer's money, the employer may take up to 4 days to check the accounts. Late payment can add liquidated damages of 10% of unpaid wages per working day, up to three times the unpaid wages.
When do I get my final paycheck if I quit in District of Columbia?
By the next regular payday or within 7 days after quitting, whichever is earlier (for employees without a written contract longer than 30 days).
General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.