When your employer hasn't paid you
7 min read · Educational content only
Document everything first
Save your offer letter, the last three payslips, attendance/timesheet records, and every email or chat where dues were acknowledged. Screenshots with timestamps are admissible.
Use the Payment of Wages Act
For employees earning up to ₹24,000/month, Section 15 lets you file a claim before the Labour Commissioner — no court fee, no lawyer required. The claim must be filed within 12 months of the dues becoming payable.
Send a recovery notice
For higher-paid employees, a legal notice citing breach of the employment contract and Section 5 of the Payment of Wages Act is the right first step. Most employers settle within 15 days to avoid escalation.
Last resort: civil suit or MSMED
Freelancers and consultants can use the MSME Samadhaan portal if they're a registered Udyam — it's faster than civil court and pierces the corporate veil for unpaid invoices.
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See services →Disclaimer: This guide is general legal information, not legal advice. Your situation may differ. Consult an advocate for advice specific to you.