Rhode Island Final Paycheck Laws
Calculate when final wages are due under Rhode Island law. Enter the termination details below.
Final Paycheck Deadline Calculator
Find out exactly when the final paycheck is due based on state law.
Rhode Island Law
By the next regular payday
All wages earned must be paid by the next scheduled payday regardless of the type of separation (voluntary or involuntary). What this means for employers: While RI doesn't require immediate payment for terminations like some states, you must still process final pay by the next regular payday. Include all earned wages through the last day worked.
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Rhode Island Final Paycheck Requirements
| Scenario | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Employee is fired or laid off | By the next regular payday |
| Employee quits with notice | By the next regular payday |
| Employee quits without notice | By the next regular payday |
| PTO/Vacation payout required? | No / depends on policy |
Penalties
Rhode Island 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
Rhode Island does not mandate vacation payout at termination by statute. However, if your company has a policy of providing vacation benefits, those may be enforceable as wages under your policy. What this means for employers: Document your vacation/PTO policies clearly, including whether unused time is forfeited upon separation. Be consistent in applying your stated policies. Ambiguous policies may be interpreted in favor of the employee.
Additional Notes
All wages earned must be paid by the next scheduled payday regardless of the type of separation (voluntary or involuntary). What this means for employers: While RI doesn't require immediate payment for terminations like some states, you must still process final pay by the next regular payday. Include all earned wages through the last day worked.
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