Payroll mistake

[Jade297]

What is the name of your state?What is the name of your state?
Georgia

I recently quit my job at a major corporation. I did all of the required steps to leave...official letter to my manager and HR rep. which included my last day of employment and forwarding information. Well, I still received three paychecks after I left because my manager/or HR rep didn't do what they were supposed to do: inform payroll. So I called payroll and informed them of the mistake. When I got the first paycheck, I actually thought it was my last official paycheck so I deposited the money. It turns out it wasn't. I have been waiting for written correspondance from payroll after our phone conversation which would state my needing to return the money (it's been three months). I am ready and willing to return the two paychecks. But the first one is already gone. Since it was their mistake, can they take legal action to get it back? And would it really be worth it to them? This is a HUGE well known company with bigger fish to fry then me....

Thank you, (sorry for the lengthy question!)

 

[Jade297]

Answering own question

okok. I researched back a bit on this site.
I get it....the money is not mine....even though it was their mistake.
I think everyone really knows this!!!

 

[cbg]

I think you're right. But they REALLY, REALLY want someone to tell them that it's okay and they can keep the money.

As you discovered, they can't.

 

[justinator]

But, do you have to pay back the gross amount or only the NETamount on the check?????

 

[pattytx]

They reverse the earnings, taxes, and deductions related to the check issued in error, and you write them a check for the net. You can't pay them back for more cash than they gave you. They need to make the records as though the overpayment never occurred. Of course, if you do not pay it back, the earnings and taxes will be included in your W-2 figures.