Arizona Wage and Hour Law FAQs

Arizona Overtime Law, Wage Payment Questions

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How often does my employer have to pay me?

Employers must pay their workers at least twice per month, no more than 16 days apart. Payment of wages must be within five of the employer's working days after the pay period ends. School districts may withhold wages during their normal two week payroll processing cycle. Companies whose payroll systems are centralized outside of Arizona can pay their workers no later than 10 days after the pay period ends.

If a holiday lands on a scheduled payday, can my employer pay me on the next regular workday?

No. The employer must pay you on or before the scheduled payday.

Can my employer pay me only once per month?

An employer can only pay its workers once per month if its principal place of business is outside Arizona and its payroll system is centralized outside of Arizona. The employees must also fall under the administrative, professional, executive or outside sales exemptions outlined by the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) or be employed in a supervisory capacity as defined by the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA).

Does Arizona have minimum wage or overtime laws?

Arizona has laws regarding minimum wage, but not overtime. If the Arizona company is covered by the FLSA, federal overtime laws apply.

When must an employer pay someone who has been terminated?

An employer must pay workers who have been terminated within three days of the employee's working days or the next pay day, whichever is sooner. School districts can pay wages within 10 calendar days from the date of termination.

When must an employer pay someone who has quit?

Those who quit their job must be paid on the regular payday for the pay period during which the termination occurred.

Can an employer withhold wages?

An employer can only withhold wages when they are required by federal or state law; when the employer has the worker's written authorization; or when there is a reasonable good faith dispute as to the amount of wages due, including counterclaims, reimbursements, recoupment or set-off amounts asserted by the employer.

What can I do if my employer is not paying wages in accordance with Arizona wage and hour law?

You can file a written complaint with the Arizona Department of Labor.

What happens if an employer is found to be in violation of Arizona wage and hour law?

The Department of Labor will tell the employer that it must comply with Arizona wage and hour law. If the employer refuses to follow Arizona wage and hour law, the Department of Labor will refer the matter to the appropriate prosecuting authorities.