Compensation Guide: How to Claim Salary, Injury & Stress Payments in India

If you’re waiting for unpaid wages, a personal injury payout, or compensation for work‑related stress, you’re not alone. Most people think the process is too legal‑heavy, but the core steps are pretty simple. Below you’ll find clear actions you can take right now, plus the key things courts look at when they decide if you deserve money.

Understanding Salary and Employment Compensation

First, let’s talk about salary. If an employer stops paying you, the law calls it a salary dispute. Your first move is to write a formal demand letter. Keep it short: state the amount owed, the dates, and give a 7‑day deadline. Send it via registered post so you have proof of delivery.

When the employer ignores the letter, file a claim with the Labour Court. You’ll need three things: the demand letter, salary slips or bank statements showing the missing amount, and any employment contract or offer letter. The court usually asks for a settlement before a full hearing, so be ready to negotiate.

If you’re a contract worker, the same steps apply, but you may also involve the contract‑issuing agency. Remember, the law caps interest on unpaid wages at 18% per year, so the longer you wait, the more you can claim.

Winning Personal Injury and Mental Stress Claims

Personal injury compensation covers two big parts: medical expenses and “pain and suffering.” Medical bills are easy—just submit receipts, doctor notes and hospital discharge papers. For pain and suffering, the court looks at how the injury affected your daily life. Keep a diary of lost activities, missed work days and any emotional distress you felt.

When it comes to mental stress caused by an employer, the process mirrors a personal injury claim. You need evidence that the stress is linked to work conditions—emails, performance warnings, or witness statements help. A psychiatrist’s report is crucial; it should detail the diagnosis, treatment plan and how the stress impairs your ability to work.

For both injury and stress claims, you can ask for “punitive damages” if the other party acted maliciously. Courts look at three factors: the severity of the wrongful act, the defendant’s financial status, and whether the act was intentional. If they see clear misconduct, they may add an extra amount to punish the offender.

One practical tip: always calculate a realistic total before you file. Add up wages, medical costs, travel expenses, and a reasonable amount for pain, suffering or stress. Over‑inflated numbers can make a judge skeptical and slow down the case.

Finally, don’t forget settlement. Most parties prefer to avoid a long court battle, so be open to a fair offer. If you accept, get the agreement in writing, signed by both sides, and make sure it mentions the exact payment schedule.

In short, claim compensation by documenting everything, sending a clear demand, and moving quickly to the appropriate court if needed. Whether it’s unpaid salary, a slip‑and‑fall injury, or work‑related stress, the law gives you a path to get what you’re owed. Follow these steps, stay organized, and you’ll improve your chances of a successful payout.