Is my unused PTO paid out when I leave?

Last updated: October 28, 2026

Applies to: US W-2 employees whose assignment includes paid time off (PTO). Independent contractors don't earn PTO. Canadian employees receive vacation pay instead; see Vacation pay and statutory holidays in Canada. Employees working outside the US and Canada should ask their in-country HR contact.

Short answer: It depends on your PTO plan and the state you work in. When your PTO plan provides for payout, or your work state requires it, Ascen pays your remaining unused PTO balance at your regular pay rate after your assignment ends. Paid sick leave is different: it is not paid out when you leave.

When unused PTO is paid out

Ascen pays out your remaining PTO balance when your assignment ends if:

  • your assignment has a PTO plan (not every assignment does), and

  • that plan provides for payout, or the law where you work requires it.

Some states treat earned vacation or PTO as wages that must be paid when employment ends. California is one: the state labor commissioner says an employer must pay for "all of his or her earned and accrued and unused vacation days" at separation, and that PTO that replaces vacation is treated the same way (California DIR: Vacation FAQ). Other states leave it to the employer's written policy. To find the rule where you work, use the US Department of Labor's directory of state labor offices.

The payout shows on your pay stub as a PTO line for the hours paid.

When it isn't paid out

  • You're moving to another assignment in the same location. Your balance stays with you instead of being paid out, because your employment hasn't ended there.

  • The hours are paid sick leave. Sick leave and PTO are separate balances. Sick leave stays available while you work but is not paid out when you leave. See How paid sick leave works.

  • Your plan doesn't provide for payout and your state doesn't require it.

Check your balance before you leave

Open Time Off Requests in the portal. The PTO Information card shows Total Hours Remaining, which is the balance that would be paid out. See How PTO accrual and balances work.

Get help

If you expected a PTO payout and don't see it, or the hours look wrong, email support@ascen.com with your last day of work and your remaining balance. For questions about whether your assignment includes a PTO plan, ask Ascen at the same address.

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