Workday Payroll Approved but Not Paid – Timeline, Reasons, and What to Do
Workday payroll approved but not paid? This article explains why approved payroll may not reach your bank, how long it usually takes, and the exact steps employees should follow.
PAYROLL PLATFORMS
Abram Pandey
1/20/20262 min read
What “Approved but Not Paid” Actually Means
When payroll is marked approved in Workday, it means:
HR or finance has finalized payroll
Salary calculations are complete
Payroll is cleared for payment
However, approval does not equal instant payment. Funds still need to move through banking systems.
Typical Timeline After Payroll Is Approved
Day 0 – Payroll Approved
Payroll is finalized internally but not yet sent to the bank.
Day 1 – Payment File Sent
Payment instructions are transmitted for processing.
Day 1–2 – Bank Processing
Banks process ACH transfers and schedule deposits.
Day 2–3 – Funds Credited
Salary is deposited into employee accounts.
Delays commonly occur between Day 1 and Day 3.
Why Payroll Is Approved but Still Not Paid
Bank Processing Delays
ACH deposits take time, especially during high-volume payroll runs.
Weekend or Holiday Interruption
If approval happens before a weekend or holiday, payment may shift to the next business day.
Direct Deposit Verification
Recent bank updates may trigger verification checks.
Employer Release Timing
Some employers approve payroll early but release payments closer to payday.
Banking Rejections
If a deposit fails, it may need to be reissued.
When Should You Be Concerned?
You should follow up if:
More than 3 business days have passed after approval
Payday has passed with no deposit
Your bank shows no pending transaction
At that point, waiting longer usually does not help.
What You Should Do Next (Action Plan)
Step 1: Check Your Payslip
If the payslip is available, payroll is almost always on the way.
Step 2: Confirm Payment Method
Ensure direct deposit is selected and bank details are correct.
Step 3: Contact HR or Payroll
Ask:
Has payment been released to the bank?
Is there any issue with my account?
Avoid contacting Workday directly. Employers control payments.
Will You Still Receive Your Salary?
Yes. Approved payroll is already committed.
Even if there is a delay:
Funds are allocated
Payments are traceable
Delayed deposits are reissued if needed
This is a timing issue, not a cancellation.
How to Prevent This Issue in the Future
Avoid bank changes near payroll dates
Track payroll calendars
Review Workday notifications
Confirm approval timing with HR
Final Summary
“Approved but not paid” means payroll is finalized but still moving
Most payments arrive within 1–3 business days
Payslip availability is a strong positive sign
HR or payroll is the fastest solution if delays continue
Read More:
Workday Payslip not showing? causes and fixes
Workday payroll is completed but not paid meaning
Workday Paycheck delayed: Reasons your salary is late