Massachusetts: final paycheck rules
When your employer must hand over your last paycheck if you are fired or quit, and whether unused vacation must be paid out.
Single detailed source| Deadline if you are fired or laid off | Same day |
|---|---|
| Deadline if you quit | Next regular payday |
| Unused vacation pay | Yes, earned vacation counts as wages |
| Law | M.G.L. ch. 149, 148 |
If your employer misses the deadline, you can file a wage claim with your state labor department; many states add penalties. Federal law has no final-pay deadline.
General information only, not legal, insurance or financial advice. Not affiliated with any government agency. Exceptions can apply. Confirm with the state agency, the court or a licensed professional in Massachusetts.
Also for Massachusetts: Workers' comp deadlines in Massachusetts · Workers' comp benefits in Massachusetts · Paid leave programs in Massachusetts · Minimum wage in Massachusetts · Unemployment benefits in Massachusetts · Meal break laws in Massachusetts · Tipped minimum wage in Massachusetts · Payday frequency in Massachusetts · Rest break laws in Massachusetts
How we checked this
Deadlines come from a statute-cited 50-state final pay survey updated in 2026. States with no final-pay statute are shown as having no deadline. Last checked: November 12, 2026. Laws change; confirm with the state agency or a licensed professional before acting.
Cross-checked sources agree Checked on official source confirmed on a government, court or legislature site Single detailed source one detailed table built from statutes or official data Under review sources disagree; read the note and the law.