If I work and stay in a hotel and owe some rent, am I still entitled to my paycheck for the previous 2 weeks of work?
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If I work and stay in a hotel and owe some rent, am I still entitled to my paycheck for the previous 2 weeks of work?
There is no on paper nor was there a written agreement based upon it. Is my landlord/employer still obligated to pay me?
Asked on October 6, 2016 under Employment Labor Law, Mississippi
Answers:
SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 8 years ago | Contributor
Yes, unless there was some written agreement that he could hold your check if you owed rent, or offset rent owed vs. your pay--or unless you specifically agreed to let the landlord do it this time--you must be paid your wages, even if you owe rent. Your employer's legal obligation to pay an employee is separate and independent of your obligation, as a tenant, to pay rent. You can try filing a wage complaint with the state department of labor; if they can't help you, your other option is to sue, such as in small claims court, for the money. Bear in mind that if you so sue, they could in that lawsuit countersue you for the unpaid rent.
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