Unpaid Wages: What To Do When Your Employer Won’t Pay
Not getting paid is more than annoying — it can stop you paying rent, buying food, or supporting your family. If you’re owed wages, stay calm and follow clear steps. Acting fast and keeping good records gives you the best chance of getting the money back.
What to gather first
Start by collecting proof. Get your contract or appointment letter, recent payslips (if any), bank statements showing missing deposits, time sheets, rostering messages, emails, and WhatsApp chats about hours or pay. Note dates you worked, hours, overtime, and the amount you should have been paid. Save screenshots and make printed copies. If coworkers are owed the same money, ask if they’ll confirm that in writing — joint complaints are often stronger.
Write a short timeline of events: when you worked, when you were supposed to be paid, and any promises the employer made. Keep a copy of every attempt to contact payroll or management — record dates, names, and what was said. This timeline becomes your map when you file a claim.
How to demand pay and escalate
First, try to resolve it directly. Talk to your supervisor or HR and ask for a clear date when you’ll be paid. Follow up with a short written demand: state the amount owed, the pay period, and a one- or two-week deadline. Keep a copy of that letter or email.
If the employer ignores you, move to official channels. Reach out to your union if you’re a member — unions can negotiate, escalate quickly, and sometimes stop unlawful dismissals. If you don’t have a union, contact your local labour inspector, ministry of labour, or employment tribunal. They can investigate unpaid wages and order employers to pay, often faster than court.
Many places offer mediation or conciliation services for free. These let you present your evidence and try to settle without a formal court case. If mediation fails, small claims court or a labour court can enforce wage orders. Check time limits for filing; some jurisdictions limit claims to months or a few years after the unpaid wage date.
Consider legal aid or a worker advice centre if the amount is large or the case is complex. Some lawyers work on contingency for wage claims, or unions and NGOs may provide free help.
Keep practical tips in mind: don’t burn bridges by acting in anger — quitting immediately can weaken some claims, though there are rules that protect workers who leave because of non-payment. Keep doing the paperwork, save every message, and don’t sign anything that waves your rights without legal advice. If the employer threatens you, document it and tell the labour inspector or union.
Getting unpaid wages takes patience and clear action. With good records, a formal demand, and the right agency or union behind you, most workers recover at least some of what they’re owed. Start today by gathering evidence and sending a written demand — small steps make a big difference.
Benjamin Mendy Seeks £11.5m in Unpaid Wages from Manchester City
Benjamin Mendy is taking legal action against Manchester City to reclaim £11.5 million in wages he argues were wrongfully withheld. Despite being cleared of serious criminal charges in 2023, Mendy's salary was stopped in 2021, causing financial hardship. This has led to an employment tribunal where Mendy seeks justice and payment assurances he believes were previously promised by the club. The tribunal is anticipated to continue for two days.