Demand to an employer for unpaid wages

Published byDocMuse

An employee's demand for unpaid wages in Poland: for which periods, how much, by when and to which account, reminding the employer that pay is due within the first 10 days of the following month, and saying that the labour court and the National Labour Inspectorate come next. It ends the silence and proves an attempt to settle amicably.

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Common questions

How long can unpaid wages be claimed in Poland?

Employment claims expire 3 years after they fall due (art. 291 § 1 of the Labour Code) — each unpaid salary separately. The period is interrupted, among other things, by a court claim or by the employer acknowledging the debt, for example by confirming the arrears in writing in reply to the demand.

Can the employee quit without notice over unpaid wages?

Yes, where the employer has seriously breached basic duties towards the employee — and persistent non-payment of wages is a typical example. The employee is then owed compensation equal to pay for the notice period (art. 55 § 1¹ of the Labour Code). The statement is made in writing within a month of learning of the breach.

What can the National Labour Inspectorate do about unpaid wages?

An inspector can carry out an inspection, order the pay owed to be paid, and fine the employer for not paying or refer the case to court. A complaint to the inspectorate is free and can be filed asking that the employee's details not be disclosed. The pay itself, though, is claimed in the labour court.