My boss agrees he owes me most of the money I want, but he says he doesn't owe me part of it. Does he have to pay me what he agrees he owes me?
You can ask your employer for your money in writing. You may want to talk with a lawyer first. Here is a sample letter, but it may not be right for your case:
SAMPLE DEMAND LETTER FOR UNPAID WAGES
Dear EMPLOYER'S NAME:
My job ended on [put here the day of your firing, lay-off or resignation]. More than 15 days have passed since then and you still owe me money for my work. You owe me at least [put here the amount you believe you are owed]. I ask for immediate payment of the amount due. If you do not pay this in full, you may become liable for payment of all costs and attorney's fees if I have to hire a lawyer and file a lawsuit to get what you owe me. You may also be liable for payment of additional money as a penalty, as well as legal interest.
If you believe you do not owe me the full amount I have stated, but only a part of it, the law requires you to pay me immediately the amount you agree you owe me. You should also tell me the reason why you are not paying the full amount.
Please send the amount due me to my current address:
[put your address here]
Sincerely,
Keep a copy of your letter. If you have to go to court to get your money, you may need to show the letter to the judge. If your employer will not pay, try to get a lawyer to ask for the money for you.
If you have to go to court to get your money, and win, the judge should make your employer pay your lawyer's fees. The judge should also make your employer pay you extra money as a penalty. You can usually sue your employer in the Justice of Peace, City or State District Court where you live. If you can't find a lawyer, you can often do it on your own. Many courts have forms that are easy to use.
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