Nebraska Final Paycheck Law — deadline calculator

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the final paycheck deadline in Nebraska?

  Nebraska requires final wages to be paid on the next regular payday or within 14 calendar days of the termination date, whichever comes first. This rule applies equally to employees who are fired, laid off, or who voluntarily resign (Neb. Rev. Stat. §48-1230, as of 2026).

• Does the 14-day rule apply if an employee quits without notice?

  Yes. Nebraska law does not distinguish between employees who resign with or without notice. The deadline — the sooner of the next regular payday or 14 days — applies regardless of how the employment relationship ended.

• Can a Nebraska employer withhold a final paycheck until company property is returned?

  No. Nebraska law prohibits withholding final wages pending the return of employer property such as equipment, keys, or uniforms. Employers must issue the final paycheck by the statutory deadline; disputes over property are handled separately.

• What penalties can a Nebraska employer face for a late final paycheck?

  The Nebraska Department of Labor may issue an administrative citation. Penalties are up to $500 for a first violation and up to $5,000 for a second or subsequent violation under the Nebraska Wage Payment and Collection Act.

• Does the federal FLSA set a final paycheck deadline?

  No. The FLSA sets no universal federal deadline for issuing final paychecks. Federal law only requires that wages be paid on the employee's regular payday. Nebraska's 14-day cap makes its rule stricter than the federal baseline.

• What wages must be included in a Nebraska final paycheck?

  All earned wages must be included: regular pay, overtime, commissions, and any other compensation that was agreed upon and earned before separation. Whether unused vacation or PTO must be paid out depends on the employer's written policy — Nebraska law does not mandate PTO payout unless the employer's policy or an agreement provides for it.

• How do I file a final paycheck complaint in Nebraska?

  File a wage complaint with the Nebraska Department of Labor, Labor Standards Division, at dol.nebraska.gov or by calling 402-471-2239. There is no fee. Complaints can be filed within three years of the alleged violation.

• Can a Nebraska employer make deductions from a final paycheck?

  Only lawful deductions are permitted: taxes, court-ordered garnishments, and deductions the employee has explicitly authorized in writing (such as health insurance premiums). Employers cannot deduct for missing property, cash shortages, or damages without a valid written authorization, and deductions may not reduce pay below the applicable minimum wage.

• Does Nebraska's minimum wage affect the final paycheck calculation?

  Yes. As of January 1, 2026, Nebraska's minimum wage is $15.00/hr. Any final paycheck for a non-exempt employee must reflect at least $15.00/hr for all hours worked, even if the employer previously paid a lower rate that was also compliant at the time.

• What if the employer has no regular payday?

  If an employer has not designated a regular payday, the 14-day statutory cap under Neb. Rev. Stat. §48-1230 serves as the deadline. Employers are also required under Nebraska law to designate regular paydays in advance and provide 30 days' written notice before changing them.