The Central Ohio Worker Center (COWC) advocates for low-wage, immigrant and other vulnerable workers in central Ohio. The current coronavirus crisis has resulted in tremendous job losses and reduced work hours for many workers in central Ohio. We are concerned that some central Ohio employers are not providing their employees with timely compensation. Specifically, workers are reporting that their final paychecks are being withheld after being furloughed, laid off, or terminated.

Photo by Alisha Skeel

Even with COVID-19 measures in place, Ohio employers are still required to pay employees in a timely manner. 

ORC 4113.15 requires that final paychecks are to be received on the next scheduled pay date or within fifteen (15) days, whichever is earlier when an employee is terminated

Failure to pay within 30 days of the scheduled pay date subjects an employer to additional damages of 6% or $200, whichever is greater

You may have a claim under this provision or other state laws for non-payment even if you are classified as an Independent Contractor (receive reporting of your income on a 1099 Form).

An employer MAY NOT withhold wages due to your immigration status.

If you are having issues receiving your pay please contact COWC by filling out the contact us form or emailing centralohioworkercenter@gmail.com.