Pay back Salary if I leave within 3 months? (employee, credit, payment)

[sportsfan123]

As I have posted recently , I really don't like my new job and I'm already looking to get out.

I recently went back and read my contract though and it says if I quit within 3 months , I have to pay back 3 weeks worth of salary.

Can they really make me pay this? Has anyone ever had experience with stuff like this.

Thanks

[Mr_Geek]

If you signed it then probably. I know my job has a clause that I pay back relocation fees at 100% if I quit within a year or am fired for cause.

[Hivemind31]

If the contract says it, then yes.

I haven't had that experience with my regular salary, but it's very common with up-front bonuses or relocation costs. If they're going to give you money up front for any reason (say, to move there), then they expect a certain amount of work for their investment. The time/amount can vary, but the most common one is something like "If you leave within a year, you'll have to pay back any of the upfront money you were given (relocation/up-front bonuses/etc.)

[sportsfan123]

but to what extent can they make you?..would they really sue me?

I didn't get any bonuses or relocation expenses , just my salary.

[veuvegirl]

Agreed, you signed the contract, be prepared to pay.

[Mr_Geek]

Originally Posted by sportsfan123

but to what extent can they make you?..would they really sue me?

I was also thinking assuming I get another job , I could get that put into a sign on bonus.

They can't break your legs if you don't pay up if that's what you are asking but they can sue you for the money.

I had to pay back relocation at my last position and was hand delivered a letter on my last day that I had 30 days to pay back the fees or I would be sued and have to pay their attorney fees as well (per my contract).

I paid that day.

[sportsfan123]

looks like im better off staying 3 months then. Hand in my resignation the day after.

[timberline742]

I hope you have another job lined up before doing so.

[macroy]

Originally Posted by sportsfan123

but to what extent can they make you?..would they really sue me?

I didn't get any bonuses or relocation expenses , just my salary.

They may not get a lawyer on you, but they can simply withhold your last pay check, send you an invoice for the remainder, and then put it to collections if you don't pay. Which then dings your credit, etc.

I guess the question is whether or not that contract is enforceable. Not a lawyer, but I would think if you gave them the amount of service they paid for, not sure they can ask for that payment back. Then again, they can still take the action I mentioned above, then it's up to you to get a lawyer to fight it.

[Coinnle Corra]

You have to do it if it's in an agreement you sign. However, any employer that requires a former employee to pay back their salary/relocation costs is cheap and not a quality company to work for.