When must my employer pay my final wages in Canada?
It depends on the province. Ontario requires final wages the later of 7 days after termination or the next regular pay day. British Columbia requires payment within 48 hours if the employer terminates (6 days if you quit). Alberta allows up to 10 days after the pay period ends. Accrued vacation pay must be included.
Is unpaid vacation pay owed when I leave?
Yes. Accrued but unused vacation pay must be paid out on termination in every province, calculated as a percentage of your earnings (typically 4%, rising to 6% after five years in Ontario). This is a statutory entitlement that cannot be waived and is included in your final pay.
Are there penalties if my employer pays late in Canada?
Canadian provinces generally do not impose US-style 'waiting-time penalties' that accrue daily. However, an employment standards officer can order the employer to pay the wages owed plus administrative monetary penalties, and interest may apply. Repeated violations can lead to prosecution and fines.
How do I recover unpaid final wages?
File a claim with your provincial employment standards branch (or Labour Program for federally regulated employees). There is no cost to file, and an officer investigates and can order payment. For larger amounts or common-law entitlements, a civil claim or Small Claims Court action may be appropriate.