Arizona Final Paycheck Law: When Pay Is Due

Quick Answer: Arizona requires final paychecks be paid within specific timeframes. Terminated employees must be paid within 7 working days or by the next regular payday, whichever is sooner. Employees who quit are paid by the next regular payday.

Know when your final pay is due.

Final Paycheck Timing

Involuntary Termination

If fired or laid off:

• Within 7 working days, OR
• Next regular payday
• Whichever comes first
• All wages owed

Voluntary Resignation

If you quit:

• By next regular payday
• All wages through last day
• Cannot be withheld

What's Included

Final pay covers:

• Hours worked
• Earned vacation (if policy provides)
• Commissions earned
• Bonuses owed

Vacation and PTO

No Payout Required

Arizona rule:

• No law requires vacation payout
• Company policy controls
• Check your handbook
• Employment contract may require

If Policy Provides

Must pay:

• Whatever policy promises
• Accrued balance
• Cannot change retroactively

Deductions

Prohibited

Cannot deduct:

• Disputed amounts without agreement
• Damages without written consent
• Shortages without cause

Allowed

May deduct:

• Taxes
• Court-ordered garnishments
• Written authorized deductions

Filing Claims

Industrial Commission

Wage claims:

• Phone: 602-542-4515
• File online
• Investigation process

Court Action

For larger claims:

• Small claims up to $3,500
• Justice Court up to $10,000
• Superior Court larger amounts

Common Scenarios

Scenario 1: Fired Friday

Situation: Terminated Friday, next payday is following Friday.

Analysis: Must be paid within 7 working days or next payday (whichever first).

Scenario 2: Quit Without Notice

Situation: Quit effective immediately.

Analysis: Paid by next regular payday. Cannot be penalized for no notice.

Scenario 3: Vacation Owed

Situation: Has accrued vacation, policy says it's paid out.

Analysis: Must pay per policy. Part of final wages.

Scenario 4: Employer Withholding

Situation: Final check withheld for unreturned equipment.

Analysis: Generally improper. Must pay wages, pursue equipment separately.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is my final check due if fired?

Within 7 working days or next regular payday, whichever is sooner.

Do I get paid for unused vacation?

Only if company policy provides for it. No Arizona law requires it.

Can employer deduct for equipment?

Generally no, unless written agreement exists.

What if employer won't pay?

File ICA wage claim or pursue in court.

Related Topics

• Arizona Wages and Hours
• Arizona Unpaid Wages
• Arizona Employment Law Hub

Take Action

If final paycheck delayed:

1. Calculate what's owed
2. Request payment in writing
3. File ICA complaint if unpaid
4. Consider court action

Legal Disclaimer

This article provides general information about Arizona final paycheck law and is not legal advice. For specific advice, consult a licensed Arizona employment attorney.

For official information:

• ICA: https://www.azica.gov | 602-542-4515