Ask HN: New software engineer, startup failing to pay salary. What do I do? (UK)
I've only been a software engineer for a few years, and joined a startup a few months ago. Things were going well, and I really enjoy the work and believe in the business. A few days ago we had an all hands meeting where the CEO explained that the company would not be able to pay anyone this month due to issues attracting funding.
From the sound of it it's going to be at least a few months before any more funding arrives - but they're hoping to keep the business running until that time, and pay people back at that point. I have some savings so I might be able to survive for a few months on those if I have to.
What are my options here? If they fail to pay me, is that breach of contract, and am I free to stop working immediately? If I leave, what evidence should I be collecting to document that I haven't been paid so I can claim it back later if necessary? If I choose to stay what should I be asking for in return for taking such a risk?
From the sound of it it's going to be at least a few months before any more funding arrives - but they're hoping to keep the business running until that time, and pay people back at that point. I have some savings so I might be able to survive for a few months on those if I have to.
What are my options here? If they fail to pay me, is that breach of contract, and am I free to stop working immediately? If I leave, what evidence should I be collecting to document that I haven't been paid so I can claim it back later if necessary? If I choose to stay what should I be asking for in return for taking such a risk?