Methods of Payment

You’ve worked hard, now it's time to get paid.

Overview

In New York State, your employer can pay you through four methods:

  • Cash

  • Check

  • Direct Deposit 

  • Payroll Debit Card

Regardless of payment method, you must receive your wages in full, and no employer can engage in unfair, deceptive, or abusive practices related to your method of payment. You also cannot be charged for services that are necessary to access your wages in full. 

If your employer would like to pay you by either direct deposit or payroll debit card, they must provide you with written notice and receive your written consent. If you do not consent to receiving your wages by direct deposit or payroll debit card, your employer must pay you by either check or cash instead. 

For Employees

Direct Deposit

Direct deposit is a payment method where your employer transfers your wages into your account at a bank of your choosing.

Learn more about Direct Deposit
Payroll Debit Card

A payroll debit card is a debit card that your employer can use to pay employees. Instead of the card being attached to your bank account, your employer will set up an account at a bank of their choosing and then transfer your wages onto the card. Payroll debit cards can be used like regular debit cards. You can use them to make online and in-person purchases, withdraw cash, and pay your bills. Once you have a payroll debit card, your employer will transfer your wages onto the same card each pay cycle.

Learn more about Payroll Debit Cards

For Employers

Direct Deposit and Payroll Debit Card payments have different requirements.

Filing a Complaint

If you believe your employer has violated a law or regulation regarding how they pay you, you can file a complaint with the Department of Labor’s Division of Labor Standards.

Applicability

Note that the specific requirements for payment by direct deposit and payroll debit card do not apply to persons employed in a bona fide executive, administrative, or professional capacity whose earnings are in excess of $1,300 a week, or to persons working on a farm not connected with a factory.