Kentucky · What to do when…
Your paycheck is missing earned wages
Keep a record of the work and pay. Ask payroll to fix the error and use Kentucky's wage complaint route if needed.
Compare work and pay
Keep pay stubs, shift records and messages about your pay rate. List the dates, hours and amount you believe is missing.
Source: Wages and HoursSource: Employment Complaint Form ES-8
Ask payroll about the difference
If safe, send a short written request explaining the missing pay. Ask when it will be corrected. Save the request and reply.
Ask the wage office about your case
Call the Division of Wages and Hours at 502-564-3534. Describe the work and missing pay. Ask which complaint route and rules apply.
Prepare the official complaint
Use the online complaint link or ES-8 form from the state page. Give accurate employer, work and pay details. Ask about name use before submitting.
Source: Wages and HoursSource: Employment Complaint Form ES-8
Keep a follow-up record
Keep a copy and receipt. Ask for a case number, contact and next update date. Tell the office if more wages go missing.
If this does not work
If the form does not fit your work arrangement, ask the wage office where to seek help. Tell staff about any safety concern before sharing details.
Confirm before you go
Confirm the complaint route, proof needed and use of your name. A complaint starts a review; it does not promise payment or a finish date.
The agency decides who can get help. Funds, appointments, and space may change. Keep private records with you; this page does not ask for them.
Sources and check dates
| Source | Exact excerpt | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| Kentucky Education and Labor Cabinet: Wages and Hours | “General questions regarding wage and hour and child labor laws should be directed to (502) 564-3534 or emailed to wages@ky.gov.” | 2026-10-08 |
| Kentucky Education and Labor Cabinet: Employment Complaint Form ES-8 | “I authorize the KY Labor Cabinet to use my name in this investigation.” | 2026-10-08 |
| National 911 Program: Calling 911 | “An emergency is any situation that requires immediate assistance from the police, fire department or ambulance.” | 2026-10-07 |
| 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: 988 Lifeline | “Call, text, or chat with a 988 Lifeline counselor for help during difficult moments anytime, day or night.” | 2026-10-07 |