Employer not paying your wages? Here is how to get your money
Payday has passed and your wages are not there? You are entitled to your agreed remuneration, on time. It is important to react quickly and in writing, because many employment contracts contain short cutoff periods.
Reach your next steps and the matching ready-made texts in just a few minutes, free of charge:
Demand your wages →Your chances of getting your money back
What you should do now
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1. Demand your wages in writing
Demand the outstanding wages in writing with a specific amount and deadline (for example, 10 days). That also preserves cutoff periods.
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2. Use the default
Point out the default and announce default interest. Keep a copy of your letter.
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3. Collect evidence
The employment contract, hours records, and payslips prove your claim.
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4. Labor court / advice
If the employer does not pay, you can sue at the labor court (first instance: each side bears its own costs). Unions and advice centers help.
Frequently asked questions
What are cutoff periods?
Clauses in the employment or collective agreement under which you must assert claims (for example, outstanding wages) in writing within a certain period, often three months. If you miss that, the claim can lapse. That is why you should always react quickly and in writing.
May I refuse to work if my wages fail to arrive?
In the case of significant arrears a right to withhold performance may exist, but that is delicate and tied to conditions (prior announcement). Get advice beforehand so you do not harm yourself.
Take action now
We put together the ready-made texts and the right places to contact for you.
General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.