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Unpaid wages demand letter

Before you file a claim, ask your employer in writing to pay what it owes by a deadline. A clear letter often gets results, and it is proof that you asked.

Tips

  • Choose your state in the form: the letter then names your state’s final-pay law and penalty laws when we have them, and the office where you can file.
  • Be exact. Give the dates, hours and amount. If you are not sure of the amount, use the wage-theft calculator.
  • Send it in a way you can prove, such as certified mail with return receipt or an email you keep. Keep a copy.
  • Don't wait too long for an answer. Check your state's deadline and file a claim if the employer does not pay.

Free demand letter for unpaid wages

A short, firm letter asking your employer to pay what it owes by a deadline. Many workers get paid at this step, and in some states a written demand starts penalties or makes the employer pay your attorney fees later. Fill this in, download the letter, sign it, keep a copy and mail it.

The letter names your state’s final-pay law and penalties when we have them, and the office where you can file.

The name on your pay stubs, checks or the business sign. If you only know the owner’s name, use that.

Not sure? The wage-theft calculator has a button that puts the amount here.

We suggest 10 days.

What were you not paid? (required)

One or two sentences with dates, hours and amounts.

Other formats

Mail it by certified mail with return receipt (ask at any post office) and keep the receipt: it proves when your employer got the letter.

Your state's rules