Tennessee Wage and Hour Law

Tennessee Meal Break, Last Paycheck Laws

Back to Tennessee Overtime Law

Last Paychecks: Workers who quit or who are fired or laid off must receive their last paycheck by the next regularly scheduled payday. The final paycheck must include all wages owed to the employee. The payday on which the Tennessee worker receives their final wages cannot exceed 21 days from the date of separation from the company.

Rest/Meal Breaks: According to Tennessee overtime law, employees who work six or more consecutive hours must receive a 30-minute meal or rest break. However, if the nature of work allows the employees to take frequent breaks, employers are not required to give this 30-minute break. Failure to provide a 30-minute break violates Tennessee wage and hour law, not federal law.

Paydays: Private employees should receive wages at least semi-monthly. Notice of regular paydays must be posted by by the employer in at least two places where the information can be easily viewed.