File a wage claim
A lawsuit filed in labor court against the employer seeking payment of unpaid wages.
How to proceed
- 1
Attempt to reach an amicable agreement
Written demand for payment with a deadline.
- 2
File a lawsuit with the labor court
Available free of charge at the Labor Court office.
- 3
Conciliation hearing and, if necessary, bar association hearing
The labor court first attempts to reach an amicable settlement.
Required documents
- Payroll / Employment ContractMandatory
Proof of the claim and the employment relationship.
Responsible authority
The authority of your main place of residence is responsible.Find authority →
Fees
Varies by case
Processing time
approx. 2 months
Official: max. approx. 3 months
Online application
In person or by post
Common mistakes
- • Failure to meet the deadlines (often 3 months) specified in the employment contract or collective bargaining agreement
- • No written notice of default prior to filing a lawsuit
Common reasons for rejection
- • The claim is time-barred
- • Failure to observe the limitation period in the employment contract
The essentials before applying
Who is eligible?
Employees whose employers fail to pay wages or salaries that are due.
Income limit
The limit varies by household and region – see the table at the responsible authority or in the application assistant.
Processing time
Nationwide: approx. approx. 2 months
Success rate
approx. 78.0 % (estimate)
Most common mistakes
- •Failure to meet the deadlines (often 3 months) specified in the employment contract or collective bargaining agreement
- •No written notice of default prior to filing a lawsuit
Common reasons for rejection
- •The claim is time-barred
- •Failure to observe the limitation period in the employment contract
Alternatives
- Check related services in the application assistant
- Use social counselling before applying
If rejected
Read the decision carefully: often submitting missing documents or reapplying helps more than an objection.