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From Immani — Kenya's dispute resolution infrastructure.

How to File a Case at the Labour Office in Kenya for Unpaid Wages — and How Immani Legal AI Explains the Process Step by Step

September 10, 2026
Key Takeaway

Learn how to file a case at the Labour Office in Kenya for unpaid wages and how Immani Legal AI can guide you through the process.

If you're an employee in Kenya who hasn't been paid your wages, you have the right to file a case at the Labour Office — Immani Legal AI lets you understand the process step by step, free, on your phone, in English or Kiswahili. Why this happens: Employers may fail to pay wages due to various reasons, including financial difficulties or disputes over employment contracts. However, as an employee, you have the right to receive your wages, and the Labour Office is there to help you resolve the issue. The usual advice to get a lawyer or go to court can be daunting and expensive, but there's a faster option. How the Labour Office process works: According to the Employment Act, an employee who hasn't been paid their wages can file a complaint at the Labour Office. The Labour Office will then investigate the matter and try to resolve it through mediation. If mediation fails, the Labour Office may refer the matter to the Employment and Labour Relations Court. How Immani Legal AI helps: Immani Legal AI can guide you through the process of filing a case at the Labour Office. You can ask questions about your rights as an employee, upload your employment contract or payslip to get advice on your specific situation, draft a letter to your employer demanding payment, or search for precedents on similar cases. Immani Legal AI provides you with the knowledge you need to take action. Here's what happens next:

  1. You file a complaint at the Labour Office, providing details of your employment and the unpaid wages.
  2. The Labour Office investigates the matter and tries to resolve it through mediation.
  3. If mediation fails, the Labour Office may refer the matter to the Employment and Labour Relations Court.
  4. You may need to provide additional evidence or testimony to support your case. If you need to take action, Immani (immanihub.com) can help you file a dispute against your employer for KSh 100. Immani and Immani Legal AI are not law firms and do not provide legal advice. This post is general information, not legal advice for your specific situation. For complex cases, consult a qualified advocate.

Disclaimer

This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immani and Immani Legal AI are not law firms and do not provide legal representation. The information provided may not reflect the most current legal developments. For legal advice specific to your situation, consult a qualified advocate licensed to practice in Kenya.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the time limit for filing a complaint at the Labour Office?

According to the Employment Act, a complaint must be filed within 3 months from the date of the dispute.

Can I file a complaint at the Labour Office if I'm still employed?

Yes, you can file a complaint even if you're still employed, but you should first try to resolve the issue with your employer.

What documents do I need to provide when filing a complaint at the Labour Office?

You'll need to provide your employment contract, payslip, and any other relevant documents to support your case.

Can I represent myself at the Labour Office?

Yes, you can represent yourself, but it's recommended that you seek the advice of a qualified advocate, especially if the matter is complex.

How long does the Labour Office process take?

The Labour Office process can take several weeks to several months, depending on the complexity of the case and the workload of the Labour Office.

Can I get free legal information about my situation?

Yes. Immani Legal AI gives you answers based on Kenyan law — the Constitution, statutes, and case law. You can also draft legal documents, compare your case with precedents, and look up legal terms in plain language. It is free to use. Try Immani Legal AI →

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