Maine Pay Period and Frequency Laws

Various labor laws and regulations are in effect across the United States. Some federal laws apply to all states, but no law is in place around pay period and frequency on a nationwide level. Explore the requirements around the schedule for paying employees in Maine.

Does Maine Have Pay Period and Frequency Laws That Differ from Federal Laws?

Yes, there are laws in place in Maine that dictate how frequently employees must be paid.

How Often Do Employers Need to Pay Employees in Maine?

Under Title 26, Chapter 7, Subchapter 2, employers in Maine are required to pay employees at regular intervals that do not exceed 16 days. Each paycheck should include wages earned to within 8 days of the payment date.

Salaried employees and family members of the employer are exempt from this requirement. Collective bargaining agreements may supersede this requirement as well.

Are There Designated Maine Payday Limit Requirements?

Yes, the limit for paydays in Maine is 16 days. A paycheck must be issued within that amount of time and at regular intervals.

How Long After a Pay Period Must Wage be Paid in Maine?

An employer is required to pay wages to employees at regular intervals that do not exceed 16 days.

What Are the Penalties to Employers for Late Paychecks in Maine?

Failing to pay wages on time subjects employers to penalties, including a fine ranging from $100 to $500 and the requirement to pay up to three times the amount of wages owed to an employee.

What Are the Paycheck Requirements for An Employee Whose Employment Has Been Terminated?

A terminated employee’s final check must be issued no later than the next regular payday. The check must include any amount due (unused vacation pay, sick time, etc.) based on the terms of employment.

Are There Any Municipalities or Cities in Maine That Have Differing Pay Period or Pay Frequency Laws?

No, the laws outlined above apply statewide.

Are There Any Other Laws in Maine Regarding Pay Periods and Pay Frequency?

Employers are required to provide pay statements with each payment of wages. The statement must include the pay period dates, hours worked, total earnings, and itemized deductions.

Maine employers are also required to give at least 30 days’ notice before changing the pay schedule.

Accurate hours are critical to accurate paychecks. An automated time and labor platform like WorkforceHub streamlines how you collect employee time data. Integrations with top payroll platforms ensure that employees receive the proper pay for hours worked. Plus, you can set up pay periods within the platform that comply with Maine regulations.