Payroll Completed but Not Paid: Meaning, Reasons, and What to Do
This article explains what payroll completed but not paid means, why it happens, and how you can fix it.
PAYROLL STATUS
1/30/20261 min read
What Does “Payroll Completed but Not Paid” Mean?
When payroll shows completed, it means:
Your employer has successfully processed payroll
Salary calculations are finalized
The payment file has been sent for transfer
However, completed does not always mean credited. The money may still be moving through banking systems.
Common Reasons Payroll Is Completed but Salary Not Credited
1. Bank Processing Delay
Banks need time to process salary payments. If payroll was completed:
Late in the day
On a weekend or holiday
the money may arrive on the next working day.
2. ACH / NEFT Transfer Timing
Salary payments often use batch transfers like:
ACH (US)
NEFT / RTGS (India)
These systems work in scheduled cycles, not instantly.
3. Employer Marked Payroll as Complete Early
Some companies mark payroll as completed once files are submitted, even though banks have not released funds yet.
4. Incorrect or Inactive Bank Account
If your bank account is:
Dormant
Closed
Entered incorrectly
the transfer may be delayed or silently rejected.
5. Payroll Provider Processing Lag
Payroll software may show completed while:
Payment confirmation is still pending
Funds are queued for settlement
How Long Should You Wait?
Typical timelines:
Same day to 48 hours for most payrolls
Up to 3–5 business days for bank clearing
If it goes beyond 5 business days, follow up immediately.
What To Do If Payroll Is Completed but Not Paid
Step 1: Check Payslip Status
Confirm:
Net pay amount
Payment date
Bank account details
Step 2: Verify Payment Method
Ensure the payment method is:
Direct deposit
Not a paper check
Not on hold
Step 3: Contact HR or Payroll Team
Ask:
Payment release date
Bank reference or transaction ID
Step 4: Contact Your Bank
Share the transaction details and ask if:
Any incoming payment is pending
Your account has restrictions
Is This a Payroll Error?
Not necessarily.
In most cases, the payment is on the way, especially if payroll is marked completed. True errors usually show as failed or reversed, not completed.
If your payroll is completed but you are not paid yet, it usually means the payment is still clearing through the bank. Most issues resolve within a few business days.
If the delay continues, contact HR or payroll support with your payslip details to get clarity.
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