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Workplace Rights 3 min read

Not Paid Your Salary on Time? Here's What Actually Applies

Delayed wages aren't just unprofessional — in most cases, they're illegal.

The Payment of Wages Act (and the newer Code on Wages, 2019, being rolled out in phases) sets firm deadlines for salary payment — typically by the 7th of the month for smaller establishments and the 10th for larger ones.

If you're not paid on time, you can file a complaint with the Labour Commissioner's office in your state, which can order payment plus compensation. For a clearer paper trail, send a written request to HR/your employer first.

If you've been terminated and not paid dues (final settlement, gratuity if eligible, leave encashment), the same labour authorities handle that too — you don't have to just accept it.

Payment of Wages Act, 1936

Sets wage-payment timelines and penalties for delay

Code on Wages, 2019

The newer consolidated law being phased in

Quick Answers

Still wondering about...

What if my employer says there's no policy for this?
The law applies regardless of whether your company has a written policy — statutory timelines override informal practice.

Adhikar is an independent citizen-awareness platform, not a Government of India website and doesn't take a position on the NEET protests themselves — this is general information about rights every student already has, not legal advice for a specific situation. For that, contact a lawyer or the free legal aid helpline (15100).