Texas Final Paycheck Law 2026
Deadlines, what must be included, and how to claim if your employer pays late.
If you were terminated
Within 6 calendar days of discharge
If you resigned
Next scheduled payday
What must be included in your final paycheck
Your Texas employer must include all of the following in your final paycheck:
- ✓All earned wages through your last day (hourly or salary)
- ✓Overtime pay owed for hours worked
- ✓Commission that has already been earned and is calculable
- ✓Any unreimbursed business expenses (where contractually required)
Whether accrued vacation or PTO must be included depends on Texas's PTO payout law. See Texas PTO payout rules →
If your employer pays late
- 1. Document your last day worked and what you are owed.
- 2. Send a written demand to your employer (email is fine).
- 3. File a wage claim with the Texas Department of Labor.
- 4. You may also file a civil lawsuit to recover unpaid wages plus penalties.
Frequently asked questions
How long does my employer have to give me my final paycheck in Texas?
In Texas, the deadline depends on how your employment ended. If your employer terminated you, your final paycheck is due within 6 calendar days of discharge. If you resigned voluntarily, it is due next scheduled payday. These are minimum legal deadlines — your employer can pay sooner, but not later.
What must be included in my final paycheck in Texas?
Your final paycheck in Texas must include all wages earned through your last day of work, including any overtime owed and any accrued but unpaid commissions or bonuses that are calculable at the time. Whether accrued PTO must be included depends on Texas's PTO payout law — check the Texas employment law page for specifics. Final paychecks cannot have unauthorized deductions.
What can I do if my employer is late with my final paycheck in Texas?
If your employer misses the final paycheck deadline in Texas, you can file a wage claim with the Texas Department of Labor (https://www.twc.texas.gov/businesses/when-be-paid). You may also have the right to file a civil lawsuit. Many states allow you to recover the unpaid wages plus penalties and attorney fees. Document everything: your last day, what you were owed, and all communications with your employer.
Can my employer deduct money from my final paycheck in Texas?
Unauthorized deductions from a final paycheck are generally illegal. In Texas, an employer may only deduct amounts specifically authorized by law (taxes, garnishments) or expressly agreed to in writing by the employee. Attempting to withhold a final paycheck to recover property — a laptop, uniforms, a cash advance — without proper authorization or court process is a wage violation.
Does Texas have penalties for employers who pay the final paycheck late?
Yes. Texas provides remedies for employees whose final paycheck is late. Depending on the circumstances, you may be entitled to the unpaid wages plus waiting-time penalties, liquidated damages, or interest. The Texas labor enforcement agency can investigate your complaint and order payment. You may also pursue a private civil claim in state court. Contact the Texas Department of Labor at https://www.twc.texas.gov/businesses/when-be-paid to file a claim.