What to do if wages are not paid?
Recently, the issue of wage arrears has once again become a hot topic in society. Many workers face the dilemma of unpaid wages from their employers, and how to legally protect their rights has become the focus of attention. This article will provide you with a structured solution with relevant data references.
1. Current data on wage arrears

| Statistics Project | data | Source | time range |
|---|---|---|---|
| National labor inspection caseload | 236,000 pieces | Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security | January-October 2023 |
| Proportion of wage arrears cases | 41.3% | labor inspection report | 2023 |
| Amount of recovery of unpaid wages from migrant workers | 12.87 billion yuan | State Council Notice | The first three quarters of 2023 |
2. Guide to steps for safeguarding rights
1.collect evidence: Labor contracts, wage slips, attendance records, bank statements and other materials proving the labor relationship and the fact of wage arrears.
2.Resolve through negotiation: First negotiate with the employer and ask for a written IOU and clear payment time.
| Negotiation points | Things to note |
|---|---|
| Clarify the amount of wages owed | Be precise to the point and avoid vague expressions |
| Agreed payment period | It is recommended not to exceed 30 days |
| Liability for breach of contract | Overdue interest can be agreed upon |
3.Administrative complaints: To file a complaint with the local Labor and Social Security Supervision Brigade, written complaint materials must be submitted.
4.Labor arbitration: Apply for arbitration within 1 year from the date of wage arrears, and the arbitration statute of limitations is 45 days.
5.Court prosecution: If you are not satisfied with the arbitration result, you can file a lawsuit in court within 15 days.
3. Handling special situations
| situation | Countermeasures |
|---|---|
| Cancellation of employer | Hold shareholders jointly and severally liable |
| The boss ran away | Call the police immediately and apply for property preservation |
| Project payment in arrears | Complaints can be made to the construction unit at the same time |
4. Notes on rights protection
1.timeliness awareness: The statute of limitations for labor arbitration is one year. If the statute of limitations is exceeded, the right to win the lawsuit may be lost.
2.Evidence preservation: Pay attention to saving auxiliary evidence such as work certificates and work records.
3.legal aid: People with financial difficulties can apply for free legal aid.
| Aid channels | Contact information |
|---|---|
| 12348 Legal Aid Hotline | National unity |
| Trade union rights protection | 12351 employee hotline |
| Online Complaint Platform | Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security official website |
5. Suggestions on preventing wage arrears
1. Sign a formal labor contract, clarifying wage standards and payment time.
2. Check salary slips every month and raise objections promptly if any abnormalities are found.
3. Pay attention to the business operating status and prevent risks in advance.
4. Participate in trade union organizations and enhance collective rights protection capabilities.
Currently, the state is strengthening the management of wage arrears. The newly revised "Regulations on Guaranteeing the Payment of Wages to Migrant Workers" revised in 2023 has increased penalties for wage arrears. When workers encounter wage arrears, they must be brave enough to safeguard their rights and interests through legal channels.
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