In most cases, no, an employer cannot simply withhold your paycheck in Michigan. Employees must be paid for the work they performed according to the agreed schedule under the Michigan Payment of Wages and Fringe Benefits Act.
However, limited deductions may be allowed in certain circumstances, such as:
- Taxes and legally required withholdings
- Court-ordered garnishments
- Written authorization from the employee for specific deductions
What employers cannot do is withhold pay as punishment or retaliation. For example, an employer typically cannot refuse to pay you because you quit without notice or because they claim you made a mistake at work.
If your employer refuses to pay wages you’ve earned, you may have a legal claim.
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