Maine Final Paycheck Laws

Calculate when final wages are due under Maine law. Enter the termination details below.

Final Paycheck Deadline Calculator

Find out exactly when the final paycheck is due based on state law.

Final paycheck is due
Next regular payday

Maine Law

By next regular payday OR within 2 weeks of employee's written demand, whichever is earlier

If a terminated employee submits a written demand for final wages, you must pay within 2 weeks of the demand or by the next regular payday, whichever comes first. For voluntary resignations, payment is due by the next regular payday. What this means for employers: Be prepared to process final pay on short notice if terminated employees demand it in writing. Include all earned wages, commissions, and accrued bonuses in the final paycheck.

ME Labor Code
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Maine Final Paycheck Requirements

ScenarioDeadline
Employee is fired or laid offBy next regular payday OR within 2 weeks of employee's written demand, whichever is earlier
Employee quits with noticeBy next regular payday
Employee quits without noticeBy next regular payday
PTO/Vacation payout required?No / depends on policy

Penalties

Maine does not have specific statutory penalties for late final paychecks. However, employees may still file wage claims and employers could face other consequences.

PTO/Vacation Payout

Maine does not require payout of unused vacation at termination unless your company policy or employment contract provides for it. Employers may implement 'use-it-or-lose-it' policies if clearly communicated in writing. What this means for employers: Document your vacation/PTO policy clearly. Whatever you promise in your policy becomes enforceable. Be consistent in applying your policy.

Additional Notes

If a terminated employee submits a written demand for final wages, you must pay within 2 weeks of the demand or by the next regular payday, whichever comes first. For voluntary resignations, payment is due by the next regular payday. What this means for employers: Be prepared to process final pay on short notice if terminated employees demand it in writing. Include all earned wages, commissions, and accrued bonuses in the final paycheck.

Legal Citation: ME Labor Code

Need more than just final paycheck rules?

View the complete Maine Payroll Compliance Guide →