District of Columbia: 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 | Next working day |
|---|---|
| Deadline if you quit | Next payday or within 7 days, whichever is earlier |
| Unused vacation pay | If promised by policy or agreement |
| Law | D.C. Code 32-1303 |
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 District of Columbia.
Also for District of Columbia: Workers' comp deadlines in District of Columbia · Workers' comp benefits in District of Columbia · Paid leave programs in District of Columbia · Minimum wage in District of Columbia · Unemployment benefits in District of Columbia · Meal break laws in District of Columbia · Tipped minimum wage in District of Columbia · Payday frequency in District of Columbia · Rest break laws in District of Columbia
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.