If your wages are unpaid, first complain to labor inspection, then apply for labor arbitration; both routes are free and most cases have a result within a few months
- High value
- Evidence A
- Saves money
- Free
- Takes some hours
- Some willpower
In plain words
Neither route costs anything. First call 12333 (the labor and social security hotline) or go to the labor inspection office (劳动监察) of the human resources and social security bureau (人社局) to file a complaint. Once the case is accepted, the inspection must be finished within 60 working days, and the company can be ordered to pay by a deadline; if it does not, it owes an extra 50% to 100% in compensation. If that fails, apply for labor arbitration (劳动仲裁), which must close the case within 45 days. But a closed case is not the same as money in your hand: if the company has no assets or the boss has run off, you may win and still not get paid.
Mentioned in
- If you were not paid, first work out who employed you: unlicensed workshops and labor contractors still fall under labor inspection; only private work for a household or an individual goes to court
- When you have a grievance with someone, such as unpaid wages, being fired or being cheated of money, use complaints, arbitration or a lawsuit, and don't go settle scores
Translated from the Chinese original. Original book, section 7, tip 2. Content may be out of date and rules differ by place. When you actually deal with an agency, a doctor or a court, follow what local officials, doctors and lawyers tell you. Disclaimer