what do i do if my job doesn't pay me

[CalebAnn]

If your job doesn’t pay you, your first move is to document everything and communicate in writing with your employer. I’ve seen this happen more times than I’d like—whether it’s a missed paycheck, unpaid overtime, or a final check that never arrives. The key is to act quickly and methodically.

Start by gathering all evidence: pay stubs, time records, emails, text messages, and any written agreement about your pay. Send a formal request to your employer or HR department, asking for the missing wages by a specific date. Keep a copy of that communication. If they don’t respond or refuse, the next step is to file a wage claim with your state’s labor department or the U.S. Department of Labor’s Wage and Hour Division. Under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) , employers are required to pay at least the federal minimum wage and overtime. Many states have even stronger laws.

You can also consider small claims court for smaller amounts—it’s often faster and doesn’t require a lawyer. If the amount is large or involves a pattern of abuse, an employment attorney may be worth consulting. Some lawyers offer free initial consultations. Don’t let fear stop you—wage theft is illegal, and agencies are set up to help workers recover what they’re owed. In my experience, the sooner you act, the better your chances of getting paid without a lengthy fight.

[LaAngela]

I remember the panic when my first freelance gig ghosted me on payment. I learned the hard way to always get a signed contract before starting work. After that, I sent a polite but firm email with an invoice attached. When that didn’t work, I filed a claim in small claims court—it cost me $50 and took about an hour. The judge ruled in my favor, and I got paid within two weeks. Don’t assume it’s a mistake; follow up immediately.

[OHolden]

It happened to me during a company downsizing—my final paycheck never came. I kept a detailed log of every missed payment and sent a certified letter to the