Employees in Massachusetts are entitled to timely wage payments under state law. When an employer delays paying wages beyond the legally mandated timeframe, it can create financial hardship and uncertainty for workers. Massachusetts has strict laws requiring employers to pay wages on time and in full, and failure to do so can result in serious penalties. If you have experienced late or withheld wages, it is important to understand your rights and what legal options are available.
Massachusetts Wage Payment Laws
Under the Massachusetts Wage Act, employers must adhere to specific rules regarding the frequency and timing of wage payments. The law applies to all types of employees, including hourly, salaried, and commissioned workers. Employers must:
- Pay employees weekly or biweekly, unless an alternative pay schedule is agreed upon.
- Ensure that hourly and non-exempt employees receive wages within six days after the pay period ends.
- Pay terminated employees immediately on the day of dismissal.
- Pay employees who voluntarily resign on the next scheduled payday.
Failure to comply with these wage payment rules is a violation of Massachusetts employment law, and employees can take legal action to recover their unpaid wages.
Common Excuses for Late Wage Payments
While some wage payment delays may be unintentional, employees still have the right to demand timely compensation. Some common reasons for delayed wages include:
- Cash Flow Issues – Some employers delay payroll due to financial struggles within the company.
- Payroll Processing Errors – Administrative mistakes can sometimes lead to delayed or incomplete payments.
- Misclassification of Employees – Employers may incorrectly classify employees as independent contractors, delaying payments or avoiding proper compensation.
- Intentional Employer Misconduct – Some employers deliberately delay wages to control cash flow or retaliate against employees.
Regardless of the reason, Massachusetts law does not excuse employers from their legal obligation to pay wages on time.
Employee Rights When Wages Are Paid Late
Massachusetts law provides strong protections for employees who experience delayed or unpaid wages. Under the Massachusetts Wage Act, employees are entitled to:
- Full and Timely Payment of Wages – Employers must follow legal pay schedules and cannot withhold earnings.
- Treble (Triple) Damages – Employees can recover three times the amount of unpaid wages as compensation for wage violations.
- Interest and Attorney’s Fees – Employers who violate wage payment laws may also be required to pay legal costs and interest on unpaid wages.
Legal Remedies for Late Wage Payments
If an employer delays or refuses to pay wages, employees have several legal options:
- Filing a Complaint with the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office – Employees must first file a complaint with the Fair Labor Division before pursuing a lawsuit.
- Pursuing a Private Lawsuit – If the employer does not resolve the issue, employees can file a civil lawsuit to recover wages, penalties, and legal costs.
- Joining a Class Action Lawsuit – In cases where multiple employees are affected, a class action lawsuit may be an option to seek justice collectively.
How a Massachusetts Employment Attorney Can Help
Navigating wage and hour violations can be challenging, especially when dealing with uncooperative employers. An experienced Massachusetts employment attorney can help by:
- Assessing the case to determine if the employer violated wage payment laws.
- Filing complaints and lawsuits to recover unpaid wages.
- Negotiating settlements or representing employees in court to seek damages.
Having legal representation can significantly increase the likelihood of recovering lost wages and ensuring that employers are held accountable.
Protect Your Right to Timely Wages
If your employer has delayed paying wages beyond the legal timeframe, you have the right to take action. Massachusetts law is clear—employers must pay employees on time, and failure to do so carries serious consequences. If you are facing issues with late or unpaid wages, a Massachusetts employment attorney can help you recover the compensation you deserve. Contact an attorney today to protect your rights and ensure that your employer follows the law.