Vermont Final Paycheck Law 2026
Deadlines, what must be included, and how to claim if your employer pays late.
If you were terminated
Within 72 hours of separation
If you resigned
Within 72 hours of separation
What must be included in your final paycheck
Your Vermont 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 Vermont's PTO payout law. See Vermont 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 Vermont 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 Vermont?
In Vermont, the deadline depends on how your employment ended. If your employer terminated you, your final paycheck is due within 72 hours of separation. If you resigned voluntarily, it is due within 72 hours of separation. These are minimum legal deadlines — your employer can pay sooner, but not later.
What must be included in my final paycheck in Vermont?
Your final paycheck in Vermont 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 Vermont's PTO payout law — check the Vermont 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 Vermont?
If your employer misses the final paycheck deadline in Vermont, you can file a wage claim with the Vermont Department of Labor (https://labor.vermont.gov/wages-and-benefits). 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 Vermont?
Unauthorized deductions from a final paycheck are generally illegal. In Vermont, 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 Vermont have penalties for employers who pay the final paycheck late?
Yes. Vermont 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 Vermont labor enforcement agency can investigate your complaint and order payment. You may also pursue a private civil claim in state court. Contact the Vermont Department of Labor at https://labor.vermont.gov/wages-and-benefits to file a claim.