Maryland final paycheck law: when your last check is due
In Maryland, if you were fired or laid off, your final wages are generally due on or before the next regular payday. If you quit after giving notice, they are generally due on or before the next regular payday. If you quit without notice, they are generally due on or before the next regular payday.
Deadlines at a glance
Fired or laid off
Final wages due on or before the next regular payday
Quit with notice
Final wages due on or before the next regular payday
Quit without notice
Final wages due on or before the next regular payday
Statute
No state-specific final-pay statute
Wage claim agency
Maryland Department of Labor, Employment Standards Service
Penalties and details
Maryland allows up to treble damages where wages are withheld without a bona fide dispute.
What counts as wages in your final paycheck
Final pay usually covers more than your last regular hours. Depending on your state and your employer's policy, it can include unpaid regular and overtime hours, earned commissions, bonuses that have already been earned, accrued unused vacation or PTO where state law or company policy treats it as earned wages, and unreimbursed business expenses.
What to do if the Maryland deadline passes
- Write down the facts: your last day worked, the amount you believe you are owed, and any messages from your employer about payment.
- Send a written demand letter that names the Maryland deadline and gives your employer a short, specific window to pay.
- Send it by email and by certified mail with return receipt, and keep proof of delivery. See how certified mail works.
- If the deadline in your letter passes without payment, file a wage claim with the Maryland Department of Labor, Employment Standards Service.
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Create my Maryland demand letterCommon questions
When is my final paycheck due in Maryland if I was fired?
In Maryland, final wages are generally due on or before the next regular payday after an involuntary termination.
When is my final paycheck due in Maryland if I quit?
If you gave notice, final wages are generally due on or before the next regular payday. If you quit without notice, they are generally due on or before the next regular payday.
Can my employer be penalized for paying late in Maryland?
Maryland allows up to treble damages where wages are withheld without a bona fide dispute.
Who do I file an unpaid wage claim with in Maryland?
Unpaid wage claims in Maryland are handled by the Maryland Department of Labor, Employment Standards Service.
Other states
This page is general information, not legal advice. Last Check GPT is not a law firm. State rules change and exceptions apply; verify with the Maryland Department of Labor, Employment Standards Service before relying on a deadline.