Final Paycheck Laws in Tennessee
When a Tennessee 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 must be paid by the next regular payday after the firing, or 21 days after the firing, whichever comes later. Tenn. Code Ann. § 50-2-103(g)
| Final paycheck if fired or laid off | All wages must be paid by the next regular payday after the firing, or 21 days after the firing, whichever comes later. An employer may hold the check until a uniform or property is returned only if the employee signed a written policy or agreement allowing it. Source: Tenn. Code Ann. § 50-2-103(g) |
|---|---|
| Final paycheck if you quit | Same as when fired: by the next regular payday or 21 days after leaving, whichever comes later. Source: Tenn. Code Ann. § 50-2-103(g) |
| Unused vacation / PTO payout | Not required by state law. Unused vacation, sick pay or PTO must be paid at separation only if the employer's policy or a labor agreement says so. Source: Tenn. Code Ann. § 50-2-103(a)(3) |
Where to get help in Tennessee
More Tennessee employment law
- Minimum Wage in Tennessee
- Meal and Rest Break Laws in Tennessee
- Wrongful Termination in Tennessee
- Paid Sick Leave in Tennessee
- All Tennessee employment law rules
FAQ
When do I get my final paycheck if I'm fired in Tennessee?
All wages must be paid by the next regular payday after the firing, or 21 days after the firing, whichever comes later. An employer may hold the check until a uniform or property is returned only if the employee signed a written policy or agreement allowing it.
When do I get my final paycheck if I quit in Tennessee?
Same as when fired: by the next regular payday or 21 days after leaving, whichever comes later.
Does an employer have to pay out unused PTO in Tennessee?
Not required by state law. Unused vacation, sick pay or PTO must be paid at separation only if the employer's policy or a labor agreement says so.
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.