Final Paycheck Laws in Texas
Texas (TX) · Final paycheck · Last reviewed July 2026
If terminated
Often next payday
If employee quits
Often next payday
When Is a Final Paycheck Due in Texas?
In Texas, when an employer fires or lays off a worker, the final paycheck is generally due within 6 calendar days of the discharge.
When an employee resigns, Texas generally requires the final paycheck by the next regular payday.
These deadlines are set by Texas state law and differ by separation type. Missing them can expose an employer to penalties, so confirm the current rule and any exceptions with the Texas labor office before an employee's last day.
What the Final Check Must Include
A Texas final paycheck covers all earned, unpaid wages through the last day worked, including any overtime owed. Whether unused vacation or PTO must be paid out depends on Texas law and your written policy — in some states earned PTO is treated as wages that must be cashed out at separation, so check your handbook against the state rule.
Avoiding Final-Pay Penalties in Texas
Late or short final pay is a frequent source of wage claims. Calculate the last check from accurate time records, settle any approved time off per your policy, and deliver it by Texas's deadline above. A reliable time clock that keeps an audit-logged record of hours makes the final calculation defensible if it's ever disputed.
Texas Labor-Law Snapshot
Texas generally requires a final paycheck within 6 calendar days of the discharge for a discharged employee and by the next regular payday for one who resigns. The Texas minimum wage is $7.25/hour (the federal floor), which sets the floor for any final wages owed.
For Texas employers these rules interact with timekeeping: accurate, audit-logged hours drive overtime, final pay, and break records. Texas sets no statewide meal-break requirement and does not mandate paid rest breaks; a final paycheck is due by the next regular payday when an employee resigns. Confirm current Texas figures with the state labor office before relying on any single number.
Official Sources
More Texas Guides
Final Paycheck in Other States
Texas Final Paycheck: Frequently Asked Questions
When is a final paycheck due in Texas?
Timing varies — many states require final wages by the next regular payday, and some sooner for involuntary terminations. Confirm Texas's deadline.
Must unused PTO be paid out in Texas?
It depends on state law and your written policy. In some states, earned vacation is treated as wages that must be cashed out at separation.
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