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SUWANVARA LAWFIRM
Suwanvara Law Firm Co., Ltd.
SUWANVARA LAWFIRM
SUWANVARA LAWFIRM
Suwanvara Law Firm Co., Ltd.
Labour Law

Employer Withholding Wages, Not Paying Overtime or Bonus — What Can Employees Do?

Owed wages, denied overtime, or not paid what was agreed? How employees can claim, and where to start.

by Legal Advisory TeamMay 10, 20261 min read
Employer Withholding Wages, Not Paying Overtime or Bonus — What Can Employees Do?

Wages are a basic right of every employee, yet many still face employers withholding pay, not paying overtime (OT), or not paying what was agreed. The reality is that employees have accessible, no-court-fee routes to claim.

What employees are entitled to

Beyond wages for work actually done, employees may be entitled to overtime, holiday pay, accrued unused annual leave, and other amounts owed by agreement — such as bonuses or commissions with clear conditions.

Where to start a claim

Employees have two main routes: (1) file with the local Labour Inspector, who can order the employer to pay, and (2) sue in the Labour Court. The advantages: no court filing fee, and a process built for speed and mediation.

What to do

  1. Keep evidence — employment contract, payslips, work-time records, relevant messages.
  2. Record the amount owed and the period.
  3. Don't sign a waiver before checking.
  4. Consult a lawyer or the Labour Inspector quickly — claims have time limits.

📌 See more: labour case services · employee rights on termination guide

If your wages are withheld or you weren't paid what you're owed, talk to our employment law team to claim in full.

Frequently asked questions

My employer owes me wages. What can I claim?+

Beyond wages for work actually done, an employee may also be entitled to overtime pay, holiday work pay, payment for unused annual leave, and other sums agreed such as a bonus or commission with clear conditions.

Where do I start a claim for unpaid wages?+

There are two main routes: filing a complaint with the labour inspector for your area, who has power to order the employer to pay, and suing in the Labour Court. The Labour Court requires no filing fee and its procedure emphasises speed and mediation.

What evidence do I need?+

Keep the employment contract, payslips, time records and any relevant messages, and note precisely what is owed and for which period. That is what gives the claim its weight.

Is there a time limit on claiming unpaid wages?+

Yes, claims carry a limitation period, so consult a lawyer or the labour inspector promptly. Leaving it for a long time risks losing the right altogether.

My employer wants me to sign a waiver. Should I?+

Do not sign a waiver before it has been checked, because it may cost you the right to claim money you are owed. Have a lawyer or the labour inspector confirm first whether the amount offered is complete.

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