What to Do If You Don’t Get Paid on Time
Last updated: 3 August 2025
Step 1: Double-Check the Payment Date
Start by confirming that the payment is genuinely late. Review your employment contract, payslips, or employee portal to check the scheduled payday. Also consider weekends and bank holidays, which might delay payments by a day or two.
Step 2: Contact Payroll or Your Manager
If you're confident the payment is late, contact your line manager or payroll department immediately. Stay polite but firm. Ask for an explanation, whether it affects others, and when you can expect your wages.
Step 3: Keep Records of Communication
Write down who you spoke to, when, and what was said. If possible, follow up verbal conversations with an email so you have a paper trail. This will be useful if you need to escalate the issue.
Step 4: Know Your Legal Rights
In the UK, failure to pay wages on time is a breach of contract. If your employer consistently pays you late or fails to pay at all, you may have grounds for legal action — including claiming for unlawful deduction of wages through an employment tribunal.
Step 5: Seek External Help if Needed
If your employer doesn’t resolve the issue, you can get advice or support from external organisations such as ACAS, Citizens Advice, or a trade union (if you're a member). They can help you understand your rights and how to proceed.
How to Avoid It Happening Again
- Confirm your employer has your correct bank details.
- Keep a record of your expected payday each month.
- Speak to your manager or HR if late payments happen more than once.
- Consider joining a union for added support.