Right to Receive Wages on Time
Every employee is entitled to timely payment of wages without unauthorized deductions.
🗣️ What this means for you
Your employer must pay your salary on time — before the 7th of the following month (for establishments with fewer than 1000 workers) or before the 10th. No illegal deductions can be made from your wages. If your salary is delayed or withheld, you can file a claim before the authority appointed under the Payment of Wages Act.
Step-by-Step Action Plan
Send a written demand/email to your employer or HR requesting immediate payment of pending wages.
Keep copies of all communication and maintain a record of working days.
If the employer does not respond within 7-15 days, file a complaint with the Labour Commissioner.
File a claim under Section 15 of the Payment of Wages Act before the authority appointed by the state government.
Claims must be filed within 12 months of the date the wages became due.
You can also approach the Labour Court for recovery of unpaid wages.
⚖️ The Relevant Law
Payment of Wages Act, 1936 (1936)
Section 3 and Section 5
"Every employer shall be responsible for the payment of wages to persons employed by him. Wages shall be paid before the expiry of the 7th day (establishments with less than 1000 persons) or 10th day after the last day of the wage period."
⚠️ Punishment / Penalty
Fine ranging from ₹1,500 to ₹7,500 for first offence. For subsequent offences, imprisonment up to 6 months or fine up to ₹22,500 or both. The employer may also be directed to pay the withheld wages with compensation up to ten times the deducted amount.
Required Documents
- 📄Appointment/offer letter
- 📄Salary slips or bank statements showing salary credits
- 📄Employment contract
- 📄Written communications demanding payment
- 📄Attendance records or work logs
- 📄ID proof (Aadhaar/PAN)