Most states have laws that require employers to pay employees their wages with some minimum frequency—usually either twice a month (semi-monthly) or every other week (bi-weekly)—and some states require weekly or monthly payment of wages.

These laws are known as payday laws and also dictate when an employee who has been fired/terminated or quit must be paid their final paycheck—in some states, immediately; in some states within a certain number of days; and in some states on the next regularly-scheduled payday.

Payday laws vary from state to state and are usually included in a state’s statutes—often in the labor code or other statutes governing employer-employee relations.

In North Carolina, the state's Wage and Hour Act stipulates that employers must establish and maintain regular paydays. Employers are required to pay wages at least once per month, although many opt for more frequent pay periods such as bi-weekly or semi-monthly. The specific timing of these payments can be determined by the employer, but they must notify employees of the established payday schedule. When it comes to the final paycheck for an employee who has been terminated or has quit, North Carolina law mandates that the final wages must be paid on or before the next regular payday either through the usual paying channels or by mail if requested by the employee. There is no requirement for immediate payment upon termination. Employers in North Carolina must comply with these regulations to avoid penalties and legal issues.