Skip to content

How fast a GC has to pay you

Most states have a prompt payment law that starts the clock when the general contractor gets paid for your work. New Jersey gives the GC 10 calendar days, Pennsylvania 14 days and New York 7. Many states add interest on late payments and cap how much retainage can be held.

Checked September 25, 2026 against each state's statute text. This is a plain-English summary, not legal advice. Contracts, project size and public-vs-private status change what applies, so read the statute or ask a construction attorney before you rely on it.

StatePrivate jobsPublic jobsInterest
AlabamaPer subcontract terms; if no terms agreed, 7 days after receipt of...Not confirmedPrivate: 1% per month (12% per annum) on unpaid balance;...
AlaskaNot confirmed8 working days after prime receives payment (required subcontract...Public: rate in AS 45.45.010(a) on late sub payments and on...
Arizona7 days after contractor receives each progress payment, retention...7 days after receipt of each progress payment unless otherwise agreed...Private: 1.5% per month from 8th day (or higher agreed...
ArkansasNot confirmedNot confirmedNot confirmed
California7 days after receipt of each progress payment unless otherwise agreed...7 days after receipt of each progress payment (B&P 7108.5; PCC 10262...2% per month penalty (B&P 7108.5(b); Civ 8818 for private...
ColoradoNot confirmed7 calendar days after receipt of payment from public entity (if sub...Public: contract rate or 15% per annum, whichever is higher
Connecticut25 days after contractor receives payment from owner covering the...30 days after contractor is paid by state or municipality (required...1% per month, beginning 10 days after receipt of claim...
Delaware30 days, out of amounts paid to the contractor (required subcontract...Not confirmedPrivate: legal rate in effect when penalty accrues,...
District of Columbia7 days after contractor receives each payment covering sub's work...7 days after receipt from District agency: pay sub's proportionate...Private: 1.5% per month or part of month. Public: interest...
FloridaNo fixed day count: payment due when sub is entitled under the...10 days after GC receipt (state: 255.073(3); local: 218.735(6)); sub...Private: s. 55.03 judgment rate + 12% per annum (or contract...
Georgia10 days after GC receipt of each periodic or final payment, once sub...Retainage: 10 days after GC receives retainage from owner (13-10-80)....1% per month from day after due date, only if payer was...
HawaiiNot confirmed10 days after GC receipt of money (progress, excluding bona fide...Public: penalty of 1.5% per month on amounts not timely paid...
IdahoNot confirmedNot confirmedNot confirmed
Illinois15 calendar days after GC receipt of each periodic, final or retainage...State: earlier of 10 business days or 15 calendar days after GC...Private: 10% per annum (815 ILCS 603/15). Public state and...
IndianaNot confirmedState agency contracts: 10 days after GC receipt of payment (IC...Not confirmed
IowaNot confirmed7 days after GC receives payment for that sub's work, or a reasonable...Public: GC must pass through proportional share of interest...
Kansas7 business days after GC receipt from owner, incl. released retainage,...7 business days after GC receipt from owner, same conditions...18% per annum on undisputed amount from 8th business day...
Kentucky15 business days after receipt of payment from contracting entity...15 business days after receipt (same statute; 'contracting entity'...12% per annum starting 16th business day (sub); 12%/yr on...
Louisiana7 days after contractor receives payment from ownerNot confirmedPrivate: penalty 1.5% of unpaid amount per month from day...
Maine7 days after receipt of progress/final payment or 7 days after sub's...Same (chapter's 'owner' includes the State, municipalities and school...Rate per 14 M.R.S. §1602-C from day after due date; plus 1%...
Maryland7 days after receipt of each payment for subs' work (undisputed...State procurement: 10 days after contractor receives progress or final...Private: court may award interest from date due, costs, and...
MassachusettsNo receipt-based deadline; contract must require payment within 45...'Forthwith' after GC receives payment on a periodic estimate (M.G.L....Not confirmed
MichiganNot confirmedNot confirmedPublic owner-to-GC only: contractor may add 'reasonable...
Minnesota10 days after receipt of payment for undisputed services (Minn. Stat....10 days after receipt (state agencies §16A.1245; municipalities...1.5% per month on undisputed late amounts; $10 minimum...
Mississippi15 days after receipt of payment from owner (Miss. Code §87-7-5;...15 days after receipt of payment under public construction contract...Sub late payment: penalty 0.5% per day after the 15-day...
MissouriNot confirmed15 days after receipt of paymentPublic: 1.5% per month after the 15-day period (RSMo 8.960)....
Montana7 days after receipt of periodic or final payment7 days after receipt (local government entities only: cities, towns,...1.5% per month if payment delayed more than 30 days past due...
Nebraska10 days after receipt of each periodic or final payment10 days after receipt (political subdivisions only; Act excludes the...1% per month on unpaid balance, only after the party charged...
NevadaEarlier of contract due date or 10 days after GC receives payment...10 days after contractor receives progress or retainage paymentPrivate: higher of contract rate or prime rate at largest NV...
New HampshireNot confirmedNot confirmedNot confirmed
New Jersey10 calendar days after receipt of each periodic, final or retainage...Same 10 calendar days; 'owner' includes any public or governmental...Prime rate plus 1%
New Mexico7 days after receipt of payment7 days after receipt; owner includes local public bodies and state...1.5% of undisputed amount per month from the 8th day
New York7 days after receipt of good funds (projects $150,000+; excludes...7 calendar days after receipt of payment from public owner1% per month on unpaid balance or higher contract rate (GBL...
North Carolina7 days after receipt7 days after receipt1% per month from day 8 (private 22C-5; public 143-134.1(b))
North DakotaNot confirmed45 days after business receives payment from the agency, unless...Public: 1.75% per month unless contract specifies another...
Ohio10 calendar days after receipt of payment from owner10 calendar days after receipt (4113.61 'owner' includes the state and...18% per annum from day 11; interest right cannot be waived...
OklahomaNot confirmed10 calendar days after prime receives corresponding payment; sub-subs...1.5% per month, if prevailing party in an enforcement action
Oregon7 days after original contractor receives payment (701.630(2))10 days out of amounts paid by the agency (279C.580(3)(a))Private: 1.5% per month from day 8, or higher agreed rate...
Pennsylvania14 days after receipt of progress/final payment or 14 days after sub's...14 days after receipt of progress payment (62 Pa.C.S. 3933(c))Private: 1% per month (CASPA 5(d), 7(d)). Public: rate set...
Rhode IslandNot confirmed7 days after receipt of payment from the state (state Dept. of...State contracts: prime rate (WSJ), compounding monthly, owed...
South Carolina7 days after receipt of periodic or final payment (29-6-30)7 days after receipt (29-6-10 'owner' includes state and local...1% per month from due date, only if payer was notified of...
South DakotaNot confirmed30 days after receiving payment from the agencyPublic: Category B rate under SDCL 54-3-16, from day 31,...
TennesseeNot confirmedNot confirmedNot confirmed
Texas7 days after contractor receives owner's payment10 days after vendor receives payment from governmental entity...Private: 1.5% per month (Prop. Code 28.004). Public: prime...
UtahNot confirmed30 days after business receives payment from a Utah state agency (or...Public: 15.5% per year, due if unpaid within 45 days of...
Vermont7 days after receipt of each progress or final payment, or 7 days...Same as private (the chapter's definition of owner includes the State...Rate under 12 V.S.A. 2903(b) from the day after the due...
VirginiaEarlier of 60 days after the sub's invoice or 7 days after GC receives...7 days after receipt of payment from the agency (or written notice of...Private: interest penalties consistent with Va. Code...
WashingtonNot confirmed10 days after receipt of paymentPublic: highest rate allowed under RCW 19.52.025, per month,...
West VirginiaNot confirmedNot confirmedNot confirmed
WisconsinNot confirmed7 days after principal contractor receives payment from the agency...Public: rate under Wis. Stat. 71.82(1)(a), compounded...
WyomingNot confirmedNot confirmedPublic agency to contractor: 1.5% per month after 45 days...

State by state, in full

Alabama
Private jobs: GC pays the sub: Per subcontract terms; if no terms agreed, 7 days after receipt of payment from owner
Public jobs: GC pays the sub: Not confirmed from the statute text.
Late-payment interest: Private: 1% per month (12% per annum) on unpaid balance; also 1%/month on retainage withheld from sub above owner's retainage percentage. Public (owner to prime only): rate for underpayment of taxes under 40-1-44(a) after 35-day period
Retainage cap: Private: 10% of estimated work (8-29-3(i)); sub retainage may not exceed owner-to-contractor percentage. Public: 5%, none after 50% completion (39-2-12(c))
Pay-if-paid clauses: Not confirmed from the statute text.
The law: Ala. Code 8-29-1 to 8-29-8; Ala. Code 39-2-12
Sources: alison.legislature.state.al.us/code-of-alabama?section=8-29-
Alaska
Private jobs: GC pays the sub: Not confirmed from the statute text.
Public jobs: GC pays the sub: 8 working days after prime receives payment (required subcontract clause); retainage within 8 working days after final payment or AS 36.25.020(b) notice period, whichever later
Late-payment interest: Public: rate in AS 45.45.010(a) on late sub payments and on retainage withheld
Retainage cap: Not confirmed from the statute text.
Pay-if-paid clauses: Not confirmed from the statute text.
The law: AS 36.90.200; AS 36.90.210; AS 36.90.220; AS 36.90.230
Sources: www.akleg.gov/basis/statutes.asp?media=print&secStart=36.90.
Arizona
Private jobs: GC pays the sub: 7 days after contractor receives each progress payment, retention release or final payment (sub must have performed and submitted billing)
Public jobs: GC pays the sub: 7 days after receipt of each progress payment unless otherwise agreed in writing (state: 41-2577; county/agent contracts: 34-221(G))
Late-payment interest: Private: 1.5% per month from 8th day (or higher agreed rate). Public: 1% per month
Retainage cap: Private: owner may withhold 'reasonable amount'; contractor retention from sub may not exceed owner's actual retention on that sub's work (32-1183(D)). Public: 10%, reduced to 5% of subsequent payments after 50% completion with satisfactory progress (41-2576, 34-221(C))
Pay-if-paid clauses: Not confirmed from the statute text.
The law: A.R.S. 32-1182; A.R.S. 32-1183; A.R.S. 41-2576; A.R.S. 41-2577; A.R.S. 34-221
Sources: www.azleg.gov/ars/32/01183.htm · www.azleg.gov/ars/32/01182.htm · www.azleg.gov/ars/41/02576.htm · www.azleg.gov/ars/41/02577.htm · www.azleg.gov/ars/34/00221.htm
Arkansas
Private jobs: GC pays the sub: Not confirmed from the statute text.
Public jobs: GC pays the sub: Not confirmed from the statute text.
Late-payment interest: Not confirmed from the statute text.
Retainage cap: Not confirmed from the statute text.
Pay-if-paid clauses: Not confirmed from the statute text.
The law: Not confirmed from the statute text.
California
Private jobs: GC pays the sub: 7 days after receipt of each progress payment unless otherwise agreed in writing (B&P 7108.5); retention: 10 days after receipt (Civ 8814)
Public jobs: GC pays the sub: 7 days after receipt of each progress payment (B&P 7108.5; PCC 10262 for state contracts); retention: 7 days after receipt (PCC 7107(d))
Late-payment interest: 2% per month penalty (B&P 7108.5(b); Civ 8818 for private retention; PCC 7107(f) for public retention), in place of interest
Retainage cap: Public: 5% of each payment and of contract price (PCC 7201), with bond-refusal exception. Private: 5% for contracts entered on/after Jan 1, 2026 (Civ 8811), not for residential non-mixed-use up to 4 stories or bond-refusal case
Pay-if-paid clauses: Not confirmed from the statute text.
The law: Cal. Bus. & Prof. Code 7108.5; Cal. Civ. Code 8800; Cal. Civ. Code 8811; Cal. Civ. Code 8812; Cal. Civ. Code 8814; Cal. Civ. Code 8818; Cal. Civ. Code 8122; Cal. Pub. Cont. Code 7107; Cal. Pub. Cont. Code 7201; Cal. Pub. Cont. Code 10262
Sources: leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml? · leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml? · leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml? · leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml? · leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml? · leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml? · leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml? · leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml? · leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml? · leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?
Colorado
Private jobs: GC pays the sub: Not confirmed from the statute text.
Public jobs: GC pays the sub: 7 calendar days after receipt of payment from public entity (if sub performing satisfactorily and has submitted list of its suppliers/sub-subs/laborers)
Late-payment interest: Public: contract rate or 15% per annum, whichever is higher
Retainage cap: Public: 5% (entity must pay at least 95% of completed work value) on contracts over $150,000
Pay-if-paid clauses: Not confirmed from the statute text.
The law: C.R.S. 24-91-103
Sources: content.leg.colorado.gov/sites/default/files/images/olls/crs
Connecticut
Private jobs: GC pays the sub: 25 days after contractor receives payment from owner covering the sub's work (required contract clause)
Public jobs: GC pays the sub: 30 days after contractor is paid by state or municipality (required clause in bonded public works contracts)
Late-payment interest: 1% per month, beginning 10 days after receipt of claim notice sent by registered/certified mail (private and public); private owner retainage not deposited/released: extra 1.5% per month
Retainage cap: Not confirmed from the statute text.
Pay-if-paid clauses: Not confirmed from the statute text.
The law: Conn. Gen. Stat. 42-158i to 42-158n; Conn. Gen. Stat. 42-158k; Conn. Gen. Stat. 49-41a
Sources: www.cga.ct.gov/current/pub/chap_742b.htm · www.cga.ct.gov/current/pub/chap_847.htm
Delaware
Private jobs: GC pays the sub: 30 days, out of amounts paid to the contractor (required subcontract payment clause)
Public jobs: GC pays the sub: Not confirmed from the statute text.
Late-payment interest: Private: legal rate in effect when penalty accrues, compounding each unpaid 30-day period
Retainage cap: Private: none stated (parties may agree a percentage). Public: 5% of value of work completed (29 Del. C. 6962(d)(5))
Pay-if-paid clauses: Void
The law: 6 Del. C. 3501-3509; 6 Del. C. 3506; 29 Del. C. 6962(d)(5)
Sources: delcode.delaware.gov/title6/c035/index.html · delcode.delaware.gov/title29/c069/sc04/index.html
District of Columbia
Private jobs: GC pays the sub: 7 days after contractor receives each payment covering sub's work (undisputed amounts)
Public jobs: GC pays the sub: 7 days after receipt from District agency: pay sub's proportionate share or notify agency and sub in writing of intent to withhold with reasons
Late-payment interest: Private: 1.5% per month or part of month. Public: interest per 2-221.02(b), at a rate set by Mayor by regulation, not less than 1%
Retainage cap: Not confirmed from the statute text.
Pay-if-paid clauses: Limited: pay-when-paid conditions may not waive sub's right to claim a mechanics' lien or sue on contractor's bond; such provisions void (27A-104(b),(c))
The law: D.C. Code 27A-101 to 27A-106; D.C. Code 2-221.01; D.C. Code 2-221.02
Sources: code.dccouncil.gov/us/dc/council/code/sections/27A-101 · code.dccouncil.gov/us/dc/council/code/sections/27A-102 · code.dccouncil.gov/us/dc/council/code/sections/27A-103 · code.dccouncil.gov/us/dc/council/code/sections/27A-104 · code.dccouncil.gov/us/dc/council/code/sections/27A-105 · code.dccouncil.gov/us/dc/council/code/sections/2-221.02 · code.dccouncil.gov/us/dc/council/code/sections/2-221.01
Florida
Private jobs: GC pays the sub: No fixed day count: payment due when sub is entitled under the subcontract, has submitted a written request and required waivers/affidavits, and the GC has been paid for that work by the owner (715.12(4)); statutory interest starts 14 days after payment is due
Public jobs: GC pays the sub: 10 days after GC receipt (state: 255.073(3); local: 218.735(6)); sub pays sub-sub within 7 days
Late-payment interest: Private: s. 55.03 judgment rate + 12% per annum (or contract rate if greater), from 14th day after due (715.12(5)-(6)). Public: 2% per month (state 255.073(4); local 218.735(9), or contract rate if greater)
Retainage cap: Public: 5% of each progress payment (state 255.078; local 218.735(8)). Private: no statutory cap found in 715.12
Pay-if-paid clauses: Not confirmed from the statute text.
The law: Fla. Stat. 715.12; Fla. Stat. 255.073; Fla. Stat. 255.078; Fla. Stat. 218.735
Sources: www.leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Stat · www.leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Stat · www.leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Stat · www.leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Stat
Georgia
Private jobs: GC pays the sub: 10 days after GC receipt of each periodic or final payment, once sub has performed and subcontract conditions precedent are met (13-11-4(b)); parties may contract for different periods (13-11-7(b))
Public jobs: GC pays the sub: Retainage: 10 days after GC receives retainage from owner (13-10-80). Progress-payment timing on public work not separately confirmed
Late-payment interest: 1% per month from day after due date, only if payer was notified of 13-11-7 when payment was requested; contract rate controls unless willful breach (13-11-7)
Retainage cap: Private: sub retainage may not exceed the percentage owner retains on sub's work (13-11-5(b)). Public: 5% of each progress payment (13-10-80, contracts on/after 7/1/2022, excludes GDOT and projects under $250,000 or under 45 days)
Pay-if-paid clauses: Not confirmed from the statute text.
The law: O.C.G.A. 13-11-4; O.C.G.A. 13-11-5; O.C.G.A. 13-11-7; O.C.G.A. 13-10-80
Sources: law.justia.com/codes/georgia/title-13/chapter-11/section-13- · law.justia.com/codes/georgia/title-13/chapter-11/section-13- · law.justia.com/codes/georgia/title-13/chapter-11/section-13- · law.justia.com/codes/georgia/title-13/chapter-11/section-13- · law.justia.com/codes/georgia/title-13/chapter-10/article-2/s
Hawaii
Private jobs: GC pays the sub: Not confirmed from the statute text.
Public jobs: GC pays the sub: 10 days after GC receipt of money (progress, excluding bona fide disputes); final payment incl. retainage within 10 days after GC receipt (103-10.5(a)-(b))
Late-payment interest: Public: penalty of 1.5% per month on amounts not timely paid (103-10.5(c))
Retainage cap: Public: owner retainage max 5%, none added after 50% complete if progress satisfactory (103-32.1(c)); GC may retain up to 10% from sub by contract, or same % as GC if sub provides bond/collateral (103-32.1(d)-(e))
Pay-if-paid clauses: Not confirmed from the statute text.
The law: HRS 103-10.5; HRS 103-32.1
Sources: data.capitol.hawaii.gov/hrscurrent/Vol02_Ch0046-0115/HRS0103 · data.capitol.hawaii.gov/hrscurrent/Vol02_Ch0046-0115/HRS0103
Idaho
Private jobs: GC pays the sub: Not confirmed from the statute text.
Public jobs: GC pays the sub: Not confirmed from the statute text.
Late-payment interest: Not confirmed from the statute text.
Retainage cap: Public: max 5% retainage where public body requires performance or payment bond over 50% of contract; retainage on accepted portions released within 30 days (54-1926(3))
Pay-if-paid clauses: Not confirmed from the statute text.
The law: Idaho Code 54-1926
Sources: legislature.idaho.gov/statutesrules/idstat/title54/t54ch19/s · legislature.idaho.gov/statutesrules/idstat/title67/t67ch23/s
Illinois
Private jobs: GC pays the sub: 15 calendar days after GC receipt of each periodic, final or retainage payment, once work accepted (815 ILCS 603/10)
Public jobs: GC pays the sub: State: earlier of 10 business days or 15 calendar days after GC receipt (30 ILCS 540/7). Local: 15 days after receipt (50 ILCS 505/9)
Late-payment interest: Private: 10% per annum (815 ILCS 603/15). Public state and local: 2% per month from end of pay period
Retainage cap: Not confirmed from the statute text.
Pay-if-paid clauses: Limited: pay-if-paid clause is no defense to mechanics lien claims (770 ILCS 60/21(e))
The law: 815 ILCS 603/5; 815 ILCS 603/10; 815 ILCS 603/15; 815 ILCS 603/20; 30 ILCS 540/7; 50 ILCS 505/9; 770 ILCS 60/21(e)
Sources: www.ilga.gov/Legislation/ILCS/Articles?ActID=2941&ChapterID= · ilga.gov/Documents/legislation/ilcs/documents/081506030K5.ht · ilga.gov/Documents/legislation/ilcs/documents/003005400K7.ht · ilga.gov/Documents/legislation/ilcs/documents/005005050K9.ht · ilga.gov/Documents/legislation/ilcs/documents/077000600K21.h
Indiana
Private jobs: GC pays the sub: Not confirmed from the statute text.
Public jobs: GC pays the sub: State agency contracts: 10 days after GC receipt of payment (IC 5-16-5.5-5)
Late-payment interest: Not confirmed from the statute text.
Retainage cap: Public: retainage must be placed in escrow (IC 5-16-5.5-3)
Pay-if-paid clauses: Not confirmed from the statute text.
The law: IC 5-16-5.5-2; IC 5-16-5.5-3; IC 5-16-5.5-5
Sources: law.justia.com/codes/indiana/title-5/article-16/chapter-5-5/ · law.justia.com/codes/indiana/title-5/article-16/chapter-5-5/ · law.justia.com/codes/indiana/title-5/article-16/chapter-5-5/
Iowa
Private jobs: GC pays the sub: Not confirmed from the statute text.
Public jobs: GC pays the sub: 7 days after GC receives payment for that sub's work, or a reasonable time after GC could have been paid if nonpayment is not sub's fault (573.12(2)(b))
Late-payment interest: Public: GC must pass through proportional share of interest received under 573.14; owner interest at 12C.6 public deposit rate (prime + 1% for ch. 262 institutions)
Retainage cap: Public: owner max 3% of each monthly payment; GC to sub lesser of 3% or contract amount (573.12(1), amended 2025)
Pay-if-paid clauses: Not confirmed from the statute text.
The law: Iowa Code 573.12; Iowa Code 573.14
Sources: www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/code/573.12.pdf · www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/code/573.14.pdf · www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/code/26.13.pdf
Kansas
Private jobs: GC pays the sub: 7 business days after GC receipt from owner, incl. released retainage, if sub gave timely, proper, undisputed request (16-1803(f))
Public jobs: GC pays the sub: 7 business days after GC receipt from owner, same conditions (16-1903(f))
Late-payment interest: 18% per annum on undisputed amount from 8th business day (private and public)
Retainage cap: 5%, up to 10% max if owner or GC determines needed for performance (private 16-1804(a); public 16-1904(a))
Pay-if-paid clauses: Limited: private pay-if-paid clause is no defense to mechanics lien or bond claim (16-1803(c))
The law: K.S.A. 16-1803; K.S.A. 16-1804; K.S.A. 16-1806; K.S.A. 16-1903; K.S.A. 16-1904; K.S.A. 16-1905
Sources: www.ksrevisor.org/statutes/chapters/ch16/016_018_0003.html · www.ksrevisor.org/statutes/chapters/ch16/016_018_0004.html · www.ksrevisor.org/statutes/chapters/ch16/016_018_0006.html · www.ksrevisor.org/statutes/chapters/ch16/016_019_0003.html · www.ksrevisor.org/statutes/chapters/ch16/016_019_0004.html · www.ksrevisor.org/statutes/chapters/ch16/016_019_0005.html
Kentucky
Private jobs: GC pays the sub: 15 business days after receipt of payment from contracting entity (undisputed amounts, if sub submitted timely proper request); includes released retainage
Public jobs: GC pays the sub: 15 business days after receipt (same statute; 'contracting entity' includes public entities)
Late-payment interest: 12% per annum starting 16th business day (sub); 12%/yr on late retainage
Retainage cap: 10% until 50% complete; after 51% complete no more than 5% of total contract amount (private and public)
Pay-if-paid clauses: Not confirmed from the statute text.
The law: KRS 371.400; KRS 371.405; KRS 371.410
Sources: apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/statutes/statute.aspx?id=56548 · apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/statutes/statute.aspx?id=35259 · apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/statutes/statute.aspx?id=35257
Louisiana
Private jobs: GC pays the sub: 7 days after contractor receives payment from owner
Public jobs: GC pays the sub: Not confirmed from the statute text.
Late-payment interest: Private: penalty 1.5% of unpaid amount per month from day after due (R.S. 9:2784 D). Public owner-to-GC: 0.5% per day, capped at 15%, after 45 days (R.S. 38:2191); GC must share such interest pro rata with subs within 10 business days
Retainage cap: Public: 10% on projects under $500,000; 5% on projects $500,000+ (R.S. 38:2248
Pay-if-paid clauses: Not confirmed from the statute text.
The law: La. R.S. 9:2784; La. R.S. 38:2191; La. R.S. 38:2248; La. R.S. 48:256.1
Sources: legis.la.gov/legis/Law.aspx?d=107211 · www.legis.la.gov/legis/Law.aspx?d=94906 · legis.la.gov/legis/Law.aspx?d=94968 · legis.la.gov/legis/Law.aspx?d=103092
Maine
Private jobs: GC pays the sub: 7 days after receipt of progress/final payment or 7 days after sub's invoice, whichever later
Public jobs: GC pays the sub: Same (chapter's 'owner' includes the State, municipalities and school districts)
Late-payment interest: Rate per 14 M.R.S. §1602-C from day after due date; plus 1% per month penalty on wrongfully withheld sums if arbitration/litigation (10 M.R.S. §1118)
Retainage cap: Not confirmed from the statute text.
Pay-if-paid clauses: Not confirmed from the statute text.
The law: 10 M.R.S. §1111; 10 M.R.S. §1113; 10 M.R.S. §1114; 10 M.R.S. §1116; 10 M.R.S. §1118
Sources: legislature.maine.gov/statutes/10/title10sec1111.html · legislature.maine.gov/statutes/10/title10sec1113.html · legislature.maine.gov/statutes/10/title10sec1114.html · legislature.maine.gov/statutes/10/title10sec1116.html · legislature.maine.gov/statutes/10/title10sec1118.html
Maryland
Private jobs: GC pays the sub: 7 days after receipt of each payment for subs' work (undisputed amounts)
Public jobs: GC pays the sub: State procurement: 10 days after contractor receives progress or final payment from the State (undisputed amounts incl. retainage)
Late-payment interest: Private: court may award interest from date due, costs, and attorney fees for bad faith (RP §9-303); no fixed rate. Public (SFP §15-226): no rate stated in portion reviewed; remedy is procurement-officer process, withholding of GC payments
Retainage cap: Private (contracts $100,000+ with 100% performance and payment security): 5%
Pay-if-paid clauses: Limited: pay-if-paid clause cannot waive sub's mechanics' lien or bond claim rights (RP §9-113)
The law: Md. Code, Real Prop. §9-302; §9-303; §9-304; §9-305; §9-113; Md. Code, State Fin. & Proc. §15-226
Sources: mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Laws/StatuteText?article=grp& · mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Laws/StatuteText?article=grp& · mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Laws/StatuteText?article=grp& · mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Laws/StatuteText?article=grp& · mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Laws/StatuteText?article=grp& · mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Laws/StatuteText?article=gsf&
Massachusetts
Private jobs: GC pays the sub: No receipt-based deadline; contract must require payment within 45 days after approval of application (approval within 15 days of submission, +7 days per lower tier). Applies only to projects with prime contract $3M+ (not 1-4 unit residential)
Public jobs: GC pays the sub: 'Forthwith' after GC receives payment on a periodic estimate (M.G.L. c.30 §39F); balance due by day 65 after sub's substantial completion, direct-payment demand available after day 70
Late-payment interest: Not confirmed from the statute text.
Retainage cap: Not confirmed from the statute text.
Pay-if-paid clauses: Limited: void except where non-payment is due to the payee's uncured non-performance or owner insolvency, with lien-preservation conditions (c.149 §29E(e)); private $3M+ projects
The law: M.G.L. c.149 §29E; M.G.L. c.30 §39F; M.G.L. c.30 §39G
Sources: malegislature.gov/Laws/GeneralLaws/PartI/TitleXXI/Chapter149 · malegislature.gov/Laws/GeneralLaws/PartI/TitleIII/Chapter30/ · malegislature.gov/Laws/GeneralLaws/PartI/TitleIII/Chapter30/
Michigan
Private jobs: GC pays the sub: Not confirmed from the statute text.
Public jobs: GC pays the sub: Not confirmed from the statute text.
Late-payment interest: Public owner-to-GC only: contractor may add 'reasonable interest' on late progress payments to next request (MCL 125.1562); no fixed rate
Retainage cap: Public: 10% of work in place until 50% complete
Pay-if-paid clauses: Not confirmed from the statute text.
The law: MCL 125.1561; MCL 125.1562; MCL 125.1563
Sources: legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-125-1561 · legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-125-1562 · legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-125-1563
Minnesota
Private jobs: GC pays the sub: 10 days after receipt of payment for undisputed services (Minn. Stat. §337.10 subd. 3)
Public jobs: GC pays the sub: 10 days after receipt (state agencies §16A.1245; municipalities §471.425 subd. 4a)
Late-payment interest: 1.5% per month on undisputed late amounts; $10 minimum monthly penalty on balances $100+; attorney fees to prevailing sub (private and public)
Retainage cap: 5% (private §337.10 subd. 4; public §15.72 subd. 2)
Pay-if-paid clauses: Not confirmed from the statute text.
The law: Minn. Stat. §337.10; Minn. Stat. §16A.1245; Minn. Stat. §471.425; Minn. Stat. §15.72
Sources: www.revisor.mn.gov/statutes/cite/337.10 · www.revisor.mn.gov/statutes/cite/16A.1245 · www.revisor.mn.gov/statutes/cite/471.425 · www.revisor.mn.gov/statutes/cite/15.72
Mississippi
Private jobs: GC pays the sub: 15 days after receipt of payment from owner (Miss. Code §87-7-5; single-family dwellings excluded)
Public jobs: GC pays the sub: 15 days after receipt of payment under public construction contract (Miss. Code §31-5-27)
Late-payment interest: Sub late payment: penalty 0.5% per day after the 15-day period, capped at 15% of balance (private and public). Public owner-to-GC: 1% per month if not paid within 45 days of due date (§31-5-25). Private excess retainage: 1% per month
Retainage cap: Private: 5% (2024 SB 2762 §1, contracts on/after July 1, 2024
Pay-if-paid clauses: Enforceable: SB 2762 §1(4) says the paying party may condition payment on receipt of payment from its own contracting party (in private retainage statute)
The law: Miss. Code §87-7-5; Miss. Code §31-5-25; Miss. Code §31-5-27; Miss. Code §31-5-29; 2024 Miss. Laws SB 2762 §1
Sources: billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/documents/2004/html/HB/0600-0699/H · billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/documents/2024/html/HB/0500-0599/H · billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/documents/2024/html/SB/2700-2799/S
Missouri
Private jobs: GC pays the sub: Not confirmed from the statute text.
Public jobs: GC pays the sub: 15 days after receipt of payment
Late-payment interest: Public: 1.5% per month after the 15-day period (RSMo 8.960). Private: court may award up to 1.5% per month from date payment was due under the contract (RSMo 431.180)
Retainage cap: Public: 5% (10% if no bond required, contract not over $50,000)
Pay-if-paid clauses: Not confirmed from the statute text.
The law: RSMo 8.960 (formerly 34.057); RSMo 431.180
Sources: revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=8.960 · revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=431.180
Montana
Private jobs: GC pays the sub: 7 days after receipt of periodic or final payment
Public jobs: GC pays the sub: 7 days after receipt (local government entities only: cities, towns, counties, school/special districts; state agencies are not a 'government entity' under 28-2-2101)
Late-payment interest: 1.5% per month if payment delayed more than 30 days past due date; same private and covered public
Retainage cap: 5% (owner's rate is the max GC may withhold from sub)
Pay-if-paid clauses: Not confirmed from the statute text.
The law: MCA 28-2-2101 to 28-2-2116; MCA 28-2-2103; MCA 28-2-2104; MCA 28-2-2107; MCA 28-2-2110; MCA 28-2-2116
Sources: archive.legmt.gov/bills/mca/title_0280/chapter_0020/part_021 · archive.legmt.gov/bills/mca/title_0280/chapter_0020/part_021 · leg.mt.gov/bills/mca/title_0280/chapter_0020/part_0210/secti · archive.legmt.gov/bills/mca/title_0280/chapter_0020/part_021 · archive.legmt.gov/bills/mca/title_0280/chapter_0020/part_021 · archive.legmt.gov/bills/mca/title_0280/chapter_0020/part_021
Nebraska
Private jobs: GC pays the sub: 10 days after receipt of each periodic or final payment
Public jobs: GC pays the sub: 10 days after receipt (political subdivisions only; Act excludes the State of Nebraska and state-paid/state-aid projects)
Late-payment interest: 1% per month on unpaid balance, only after the party charged has been notified of the Act's provisions
Retainage cap: 10%; max 5% of further progress payments once 50% complete with adequate assurances
Pay-if-paid clauses: Not confirmed from the statute text.
The law: Neb. Rev. Stat. 45-1201 to 45-1211 (Nebraska Construction Prompt Pay Act); 45-1203; 45-1204; 45-1205
Sources: nebraskalegislature.gov/laws/statutes.php?statute=45-1202 · nebraskalegislature.gov/laws/statutes.php?statute=45-1203 · nebraskalegislature.gov/laws/statutes.php?statute=45-1204 · nebraskalegislature.gov/laws/statutes.php?statute=45-1205 · nebraskalegislature.gov/laws/statutes.php?statute=45-1211
Nevada
Private jobs: GC pays the sub: Earlier of contract due date or 10 days after GC receives payment (written schedule); if no schedule/oral: earlier of 30 days after sub's request or 10 days after GC receives payment
Public jobs: GC pays the sub: 10 days after contractor receives progress or retainage payment
Late-payment interest: Private: higher of contract rate or prime rate at largest NV bank + 4% (NRS 624.630). Public: interest received by GC on retainage passed to subs within 10 days
Retainage cap: Private: 5% of each payment. Public: 5% until sub 50% complete, then 2.5% (or 5% if withholding under 338.560)
Pay-if-paid clauses: Limited: clauses that waive/limit NRS 624.624-624.630 rights or relieve the higher tier of its obligations are void (NRS 624.628(3)); no explicit pay-if-paid wording
The law: NRS 624.624; NRS 624.628; NRS 624.630; NRS 338.550; NRS 338.555
Sources: www.leg.state.nv.us/nrs/nrs-624.html · www.leg.state.nv.us/nrs/nrs-338.html
New Hampshire
Private jobs: GC pays the sub: Not confirmed from the statute text.
Public jobs: GC pays the sub: Not confirmed from the statute text.
Late-payment interest: Not confirmed from the statute text.
Retainage cap: Not confirmed from the statute text.
Pay-if-paid clauses: Not confirmed from the statute text.
The law: Not confirmed from the statute text.
New Jersey
Private jobs: GC pays the sub: 10 calendar days after receipt of each periodic, final or retainage payment (if sub performed and work accepted, and parties have not otherwise agreed in writing)
Public jobs: GC pays the sub: Same 10 calendar days; 'owner' includes any public or governmental entity
Late-payment interest: Prime rate plus 1%
Retainage cap: Not confirmed from the statute text.
Pay-if-paid clauses: Not confirmed from the statute text.
The law: N.J.S.A. 2A:30A-1 et seq. (Prompt Payment Act), 2A:30A-2; P.L. 2006, c.96
Sources: pub.njleg.gov/bills/2006/PL06/96_.HTM
New Mexico
Private jobs: GC pays the sub: 7 days after receipt of payment
Public jobs: GC pays the sub: 7 days after receipt; owner includes local public bodies and state agencies other than the Department of Transportation
Late-payment interest: 1.5% of undisputed amount per month from the 8th day
Retainage cap: Retainage prohibited: owner, contractor or sub may not retain/withhold amounts owed for work performed (57-28-5)
Pay-if-paid clauses: Not confirmed from the statute text.
The law: NMSA 57-28-1 to 57-28-11 (Prompt Payment Act); 57-28-2; 57-28-3; 57-28-5
Sources: www.nmlegis.gov/Sessions/07%20Regular/bills/senate/SB0604CTS
New York
Private jobs: GC pays the sub: 7 days after receipt of good funds (projects $150,000+; excludes public and most residential)
Public jobs: GC pays the sub: 7 calendar days after receipt of payment from public owner
Late-payment interest: 1% per month on unpaid balance or higher contract rate (GBL 756-b); public uses same rate by reference
Retainage cap: Private: 5% of contract sum (GBL 757). Public: 5%, up to 10% allowed in limited cases
Pay-if-paid clauses: Not confirmed from the statute text.
The law: N.Y. Gen. Bus. Law 756, 756-a, 756-b, 757; N.Y. State Fin. Law 139-f; N.Y. Gen. Mun. Law 106-b
Sources: www.nysenate.gov/legislation/laws/GBS/756 · www.nysenate.gov/legislation/laws/GBS/756-A · www.nysenate.gov/legislation/laws/GBS/756-B · www.nysenate.gov/legislation/laws/GBS/757 · www.nysenate.gov/legislation/laws/STF/139-F · www.nysenate.gov/legislation/laws/GMU/106-B
North Carolina
Private jobs: GC pays the sub: 7 days after receipt
Public jobs: GC pays the sub: 7 days after receipt
Late-payment interest: 1% per month from day 8 (private 22C-5; public 143-134.1(b))
Retainage cap: Private: sub retainage not to exceed initial percentage retained by owner (22C-4). Public: 5% max, none on projects under $150,000; no further retainage after 50% complete if performance satisfactory (143-134.1(b1))
Pay-if-paid clauses: Void
The law: N.C.G.S. 22C-2; 22C-3; 22C-4; 22C-5; 22C-6; 143-134.1
Sources: www.ncleg.gov/EnactedLegislation/Statutes/HTML/BySection/Cha · www.ncleg.gov/EnactedLegislation/Statutes/HTML/BySection/Cha · www.ncleg.gov/EnactedLegislation/Statutes/HTML/BySection/Cha · www.ncleg.gov/EnactedLegislation/Statutes/HTML/BySection/Cha · www.ncleg.gov/EnactedLegislation/Statutes/HTML/BySection/Cha · www.ncleg.gov/EnactedLegislation/Statutes/HTML/BySection/Cha
North Dakota
Private jobs: GC pays the sub: Not confirmed from the statute text.
Public jobs: GC pays the sub: 45 days after business receives payment from the agency, unless otherwise provided by contract
Late-payment interest: Public: 1.75% per month unless contract specifies another rate
Retainage cap: Not confirmed from the statute text.
Pay-if-paid clauses: Not confirmed from the statute text.
The law: N.D.C.C. 13-01.1-01 to 13-01.1-06; N.D.C.C. ch. 48-01.2 (partial payment/retainage section preceding 48-01.2-14); N.D.C.C. 48-01.2-14
Sources: www.ndlegis.gov/cencode/t13c01-1.pdf · www.ndlegis.gov/cencode/t48c01-2.pdf
Ohio
Private jobs: GC pays the sub: 10 calendar days after receipt of payment from owner
Public jobs: GC pays the sub: 10 calendar days after receipt (4113.61 'owner' includes the state and political subdivisions)
Late-payment interest: 18% per annum from day 11; interest right cannot be waived (4113.61(A),(D))
Retainage cap: Private: sub retainage per the subcontract (no statutory cap in 4113.61). Public: partial payments for labor at not less than 96% of approved estimates (153.12) and 92% of invoice cost of stored materials (153.14), i.e. effectively 4% labor / 8% materials
Pay-if-paid clauses: Not confirmed from the statute text.
The law: R.C. 4113.61; R.C. 153.12; R.C. 153.13; R.C. 153.14; R.C. 153.63
Sources: codes.ohio.gov/ohio-revised-code/section-4113.61 · codes.ohio.gov/ohio-revised-code/section-153.12 · codes.ohio.gov/ohio-revised-code/section-153.13 · codes.ohio.gov/ohio-revised-code/section-153.14 · codes.ohio.gov/ohio-revised-code/section-153.63
Oklahoma
Private jobs: GC pays the sub: Not confirmed from the statute text.
Public jobs: GC pays the sub: 10 calendar days after prime receives corresponding payment; sub-subs 7 calendar days after sub receives payment
Late-payment interest: 1.5% per month, if prevailing party in an enforcement action
Retainage cap: Public: 10% until prime's invoices reach 50% of contract value, then 5%; subcontract retainage 10%, then not above percentage withheld from the withholding entity
Pay-if-paid clauses: Not confirmed from the statute text.
The law: Fair Pay for Construction Act (SB 1561, 2004)
Sources: www.oklegislature.gov/cf_pdf/2003-04%20ENR/sb/sb1561%20enr.p
Oregon
Private jobs: GC pays the sub: 7 days after original contractor receives payment (701.630(2))
Public jobs: GC pays the sub: 10 days out of amounts paid by the agency (279C.580(3)(a))
Late-payment interest: Private: 1.5% per month from day 8, or higher agreed rate (701.630(6)). Public: 9% per annum if unpaid within 30 days of receipt, running from end of 10-day period; not waivable (279C.515(2), 279C.580(3)(d))
Retainage cap: 5% private and public (701.420(1); 279C.570(7); 279C.555 applies 701.420 to contractor/sub retainage on public work); escrow required over $500,000
Pay-if-paid clauses: Not confirmed from the statute text.
The law: ORS 701.620-701.640; ORS 701.420; ORS 279C.515; ORS 279C.555; ORS 279C.570; ORS 279C.580
Sources: oregon.public.law/statutes/ors_701.620 · oregon.public.law/statutes/ors_701.630 · oregon.public.law/statutes/ors_701.640 · oregon.public.law/statutes/ors_701.420 · oregon.public.law/statutes/ors_279C.515 · oregon.public.law/statutes/ors_279C.555 · oregon.public.law/statutes/ors_279C.570 · oregon.public.law/statutes/ors_279C.580
Pennsylvania
Private jobs: GC pays the sub: 14 days after receipt of progress/final payment or 14 days after sub's invoice, whichever is later (CASPA 7(c))
Public jobs: GC pays the sub: 14 days after receipt of progress payment (62 Pa.C.S. 3933(c))
Late-payment interest: Private: 1% per month (CASPA 5(d), 7(d)). Public: rate set by Secretary of Revenue for overdue taxes (3932(c), 3933(d)); none if paid within 15 days after due date absent grace period
Retainage cap: Private: no percentage cap; retainage payable within 30 days after final acceptance, subs within 14 days of receipt (CASPA 9). Public: 10% until 50% complete, then 5% (3921)
Pay-if-paid clauses: Not confirmed from the statute text.
The law: 73 P.S. 501-516 (Act of Feb. 17, 1994, P.L. 73, No. 7); 62 Pa.C.S. 3921; 62 Pa.C.S. 3931-3939
Sources: www.legis.state.pa.us/WU01/LI/LI/US/HTM/1994/0/0007..HTM · www.legis.state.pa.us/WU01/LI/LI/CT/HTM/62/00.039..HTM
Rhode Island
Private jobs: GC pays the sub: Not confirmed from the statute text.
Public jobs: GC pays the sub: 7 days after receipt of payment from the state (state Dept. of Administration contracts); RIDOT contracts excluded unless sub posts payment and performance bond
Late-payment interest: State contracts: prime rate (WSJ), compounding monthly, owed by the state to the contractor (42-11.1-6); no statutory sub-level interest rate found
Retainage cap: 5% of any progress payment on construction contracts (as defined in 5-65-1) and state/municipal public works (37-12-10.1); RIDOT up to 5%
Pay-if-paid clauses: Not confirmed from the statute text.
The law: R.I. Gen. Laws 42-11.1-3; 42-11.1-6; 37-12-10.1
Sources: webserver.rilegislature.gov/Statutes/TITLE42/42-11.1/42-11.1 · webserver.rilegislature.gov/Statutes/TITLE42/42-11.1/42-11.1 · webserver.rilegislature.gov/Statutes/TITLE37/37-12/37-12-10.
South Carolina
Private jobs: GC pays the sub: 7 days after receipt of periodic or final payment (29-6-30)
Public jobs: GC pays the sub: 7 days after receipt (29-6-10 'owner' includes state and local government)
Late-payment interest: 1% per month from due date, only if payer was notified of 29-6-50 when payment requested; private parties may contract for different rate/period only by conspicuous section-number waiver (29-6-50)
Retainage cap: Public (state procurement code): 3.5% on contracts and subcontracts (11-35-3030(4)(a)). Private: no cap; 'reasonable amount' may be withheld (29-6-40)
Pay-if-paid clauses: Void
The law: S.C. Code 29-6-10 to 29-6-60; 29-6-230; 11-35-3030(4)
Sources: www.scstatehouse.gov/code/t29c006.php · www.scstatehouse.gov/code/t11c035.php
South Dakota
Private jobs: GC pays the sub: Not confirmed from the statute text.
Public jobs: GC pays the sub: 30 days after receiving payment from the agency
Late-payment interest: Public: Category B rate under SDCL 54-3-16, from day 31, unless the subcontract provides otherwise
Retainage cap: Not confirmed from the statute text.
Pay-if-paid clauses: Not confirmed from the statute text.
The law: SDCL 5-26-6; SDCL 5-26-3; SDCL 5-18B-11
Sources: sdlegislature.gov/api/Statutes/5-26.html?all=true · sdlegislature.gov/api/Statutes/5-18B.html?all=true
Tennessee
Private jobs: GC pays the sub: Not confirmed from the statute text.
Public jobs: GC pays the sub: Not confirmed from the statute text.
Late-payment interest: Not confirmed from the statute text.
Retainage cap: Not confirmed from the statute text.
Pay-if-paid clauses: Not confirmed from the statute text.
The law: Tenn. Code Ann. 66-34-101 et seq. (Prompt Pay Act of 1991)
Texas
Private jobs: GC pays the sub: 7 days after contractor receives owner's payment
Public jobs: GC pays the sub: 10 days after vendor receives payment from governmental entity (overdue on 11th day)
Late-payment interest: Private: 1.5% per month (Prop. Code 28.004). Public: prime rate (WSJ, first weekday of July of preceding fiscal year) + 1%, set each Sept 1 (Gov. Code 2251.025)
Retainage cap: Public: 10% if contract < $5M; 5% if $5M or more (Gov. Code 2252.032(b)). Private: no cap found (Prop. Code ch. 53 requires owner to retain 10% for lien purposes)
Pay-if-paid clauses: Limited: contingent payment clauses are unenforceable in listed cases, e.g. nonpayment caused by the contingent payor, after written notice by the payee, sham relationships, or unconscionability (Bus. & Com. Code ch. 56)
The law: Tex. Prop. Code 28.002; Tex. Prop. Code 28.004; Tex. Gov. Code 2251.022; Tex. Gov. Code 2251.025; Tex. Gov. Code 2252.032; Tex. Bus. & Com. Code 56.051-56.054
Sources: statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/PR/htm/PR.28.htm · statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/GV/htm/GV.2251.htm · statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/GV/htm/GV.2252.htm · statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/BC/htm/BC.56.htm
Utah
Private jobs: GC pays the sub: Not confirmed from the statute text.
Public jobs: GC pays the sub: 30 days after business receives payment from a Utah state agency (or U.S. agency)
Late-payment interest: Public: 15.5% per year, due if unpaid within 45 days of receipt, accruing from day 31, unless the subcontract provides otherwise (15-6-5)
Retainage cap: 5% of each payment and 5% of total price, private nonresidential and public, including GC-to-sub; retainage held in interest-bearing account (13-8-5)
Pay-if-paid clauses: Not confirmed from the statute text.
The law: Utah Code 15-6-5; Utah Code 13-8-5
Sources: le.utah.gov/xcode/Title15/Chapter6/15-6-S5.html · le.utah.gov/xcode/Title13/Chapter8/13-8-S5.html
Vermont
Private jobs: GC pays the sub: 7 days after receipt of each progress or final payment, or 7 days after the sub's invoice, whichever is later
Public jobs: GC pays the sub: Same as private (the chapter's definition of owner includes the State and municipalities)
Late-payment interest: Rate under 12 V.S.A. 2903(b) from the day after the due date. Wrongful withholding also carries a penalty of 1% per month plus attorney's fees (4007)
Retainage cap: Not confirmed from the statute text.
Pay-if-paid clauses: Not confirmed from the statute text.
The law: 9 V.S.A. 4001; 9 V.S.A. 4002; 9 V.S.A. 4003; 9 V.S.A. 4005; 9 V.S.A. 4007
Sources: legislature.vermont.gov/statutes/section/09/102/04001 · legislature.vermont.gov/statutes/section/09/102/04002 · legislature.vermont.gov/statutes/section/09/102/04003 · legislature.vermont.gov/statutes/section/09/102/04005 · legislature.vermont.gov/statutes/section/09/102/04007
Virginia
Private jobs: GC pays the sub: Earlier of 60 days after the sub's invoice or 7 days after GC receives owner payment
Public jobs: GC pays the sub: 7 days after receipt of payment from the agency (or written notice of withholding)
Late-payment interest: Private: interest penalties consistent with Va. Code 2.2-4355 (prime rate, WSJ). Public: 1% per month unless the contract says otherwise (2.2-4354)
Retainage cap: Public: 5% (2.2-4333, applies to subcontracts). Private: none in statute
Pay-if-paid clauses: Void: owner payment may not be a condition precedent to sub payment, unless the owner is insolvent or bankrupt (private 11-4.6; public 2.2-4354)
The law: Va. Code 11-4.6; Va. Code 2.2-4354; Va. Code 2.2-4355; Va. Code 2.2-4333
Sources: law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/title11/chapter2/section11-4.6/ · law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/title2.2/chapter43/section2.2-43 · law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/title2.2/chapter43/section2.2-43 · law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/title2.2/chapter43/section2.2-43
Washington
Private jobs: GC pays the sub: Not confirmed from the statute text.
Public jobs: GC pays the sub: 10 days after receipt of payment
Late-payment interest: Public: highest rate allowed under RCW 19.52.025, per month, plus attorney's fees to the prevailing party
Retainage cap: Public: 5% (RCW 60.28.011). Private: none found
Pay-if-paid clauses: Not confirmed from the statute text.
The law: RCW 39.04.250; RCW 60.28.011
Sources: app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=39.04.250 · app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=60.28.011
West Virginia
Private jobs: GC pays the sub: Not confirmed from the statute text.
Public jobs: GC pays the sub: Not confirmed from the statute text.
Late-payment interest: Not confirmed from the statute text.
Retainage cap: Not confirmed from the statute text.
Pay-if-paid clauses: Not confirmed from the statute text.
The law: Not confirmed from the statute text.
Sources: code.wvlegislature.gov/5-22/
Wisconsin
Private jobs: GC pays the sub: Not confirmed from the statute text.
Public jobs: GC pays the sub: 7 days after principal contractor receives payment from the agency (state 16.528(2m); local 66.0135(3))
Late-payment interest: Public: rate under Wis. Stat. 71.82(1)(a), compounded monthly, from the 8th day
Retainage cap: Public (municipal, 66.0901(9)(b)): up to 5% until 50% complete, then no further retainage; total up to 10% if progress is unsatisfactory
Pay-if-paid clauses: Not confirmed from the statute text.
The law: Wis. Stat. 16.528; Wis. Stat. 66.0135; Wis. Stat. 66.0901(9); Wis. Stat. 779.02
Sources: docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/document/statutes/66.0135 · docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/document/statutes/16.528 · docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/document/statutes/66.0901 · docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/document/statutes/779.02
Wyoming
Private jobs: GC pays the sub: Not confirmed from the statute text.
Public jobs: GC pays the sub: Not confirmed from the statute text.
Late-payment interest: Public agency to contractor: 1.5% per month after 45 days (16-6-602). No GC-to-sub rate found
Retainage cap: Public: 5% of completed work (16-6-702(b))
Pay-if-paid clauses: Not confirmed from the statute text.
The law: Wyo. Stat. 16-6-602; Wyo. Stat. 16-6-702; Wyo. Stat. 16-6-116; Wyo. Stat. 16-6-117
Sources: wyoleg.gov/statutes/compress/title16.pdf

How long does a general contractor have to pay a subcontractor?

It depends on the state and on whether the job is private or public. Where a state has a prompt payment law, the clock usually starts when the GC gets paid for your work and runs 7 to 15 days: 10 calendar days in New Jersey, 14 days in Pennsylvania, 7 days in New York. Check your state below.

What can a sub do when the GC pays late?

Most prompt payment laws add interest on late payments, and several let the prevailing side recover attorney fees. Many also let a sub stop work after written notice when payment is overdue. The exact rights are in your state's statute, linked below.

Are pay-if-paid clauses enforceable?

Some states void them by statute, some limit them, and in others it's settled by court cases rather than statute. This table only reports what the statute text says.

Get paid on time, with paper to prove it

TrackOver sends the invoice from the job, shows when it was opened and when it's past due, and keeps the photos and daily logs that back up the work if a payment is disputed.

See how it worksFind work on the board