Once you learn that a paycheck is incorrect, it is important to keep a record of your hours worked during the relevant pay period, the pay stub you received, and a copy of the check if you are forced to cash it before a new paycheck is issued. You may first want to ask your employer for an explanation, to determine whether the reduced amount of the check was due to a processing error or bank mistake, rather than because the employer does not intend to pay you for the full amount of hours you worked. In this situation, the employer and/or bank may voluntarily agree to cover any additional charges you incurred as a result of this mistake. This will also ensure that you are not at fault for failing to submit records for all hours that you worked. Many states have laws that require employers to pay employees for all hours worked. These laws may impose penalties on employers who do not comply with the law, and may even provide for criminal prosecution. In states that have their own wage and hour laws (or if you are not covered by the federal law), you should contact the agency in your state which handles wage and hour/labor standards violations, listed on our site's state government agencies page. Federal laws, that require you to be paid at least minimum wage for hours worked are enforced by the Wage-Hour Division of the U.S. Department of Labor. However, if you received at least the minimum wage for the hours that you worked, the federal agency will not be able to help you, even though you were not paid as agreed for the hours you worked. If your state does not have a specific law covering this situation, then you should consult with the Department of Labor and/or a local attorney to determine how to proceed. You may also wish to pursue an action against your employer in small claims court, depending on the amount owed you.