Final Paycheck Laws in North Carolina
When a North Carolina employer must pay your last paycheck if you are fired, laid off or quit, and whether unused vacation must be paid out.
Short answer: All wages due must be paid on or before the next regular payday, for any reason of separation; by trackable mail if the employee asks in writing. G.S. 95-25.7
| Final paycheck if fired or laid off | All wages due must be paid on or before the next regular payday, for any reason of separation; by trackable mail if the employee asks in writing. Bonuses and commissions are due on the first regular payday after they can be calculated. Source: G.S. 95-25.7 |
|---|---|
| Final paycheck if you quit | Same rule: on or before the next regular payday. Source: G.S. 95-25.7 |
| Unused vacation / PTO payout | Employers are not required to offer vacation pay, but if they do, they must follow their own policy. Vacation can be forfeited at separation only if the employer gave written notice of a forfeiture policy; employees not notified cannot lose it. Source: G.S. 95-25.12 |
Where to get help in North Carolina
More North Carolina employment law
- Minimum Wage in North Carolina
- Meal and Rest Break Laws in North Carolina
- Wrongful Termination in North Carolina
- Non-Compete Agreements in North Carolina
- All North Carolina employment law rules
FAQ
When do I get my final paycheck if I'm fired in North Carolina?
All wages due must be paid on or before the next regular payday, for any reason of separation; by trackable mail if the employee asks in writing. Bonuses and commissions are due on the first regular payday after they can be calculated.
When do I get my final paycheck if I quit in North Carolina?
Same rule: on or before the next regular payday.
Does an employer have to pay out unused PTO in North Carolina?
Employers are not required to offer vacation pay, but if they do, they must follow their own policy. Vacation can be forfeited at separation only if the employer gave written notice of a forfeiture policy; employees not notified cannot lose it.
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.