Florida PTO Payout Laws 2025: Do You Get Paid for Unused Vacation?
Does Florida require PTO payout at termination? Learn why Florida is typically policy-driven, what to look for in your handbook, and how to estimate the value of unused PTO.
Florida does not require private employers to provide PTO or vacation time. That’s why the most important question in Florida is usually:
What does your employer’s written policy say?
This page is a practical overview of how PTO payout commonly works in Florida, what to check in your handbook, and how to calculate what you might be owed.
Quick answer
- Florida generally does not mandate PTO/vacation payout by default.
- If your employer has a written policy promising payout, that policy can matter a lot.
PTO vs. vacation vs. sick time
Employers often lump multiple leave types under “PTO.” When you’re leaving a job, clarify:
- Is the balance truly vacation/PTO?
- Are there separate rules for sick time or personal days?
Many employers treat sick leave differently than vacation.
What usually decides PTO payout in Florida
The deciding factors are typically:
- The employee handbook
- An offer letter or employment agreement
- Any PTO policy updates you acknowledged
Common policy patterns
- Payout promised: Employers may pay out some or all accrued PTO.
- Forfeiture clause: Some employers say unused PTO is forfeited on separation.
- Notice requirement: Some policies require two weeks’ notice to qualify.
How to protect yourself (before you resign)
- Save a PDF or screenshot of the current PTO policy.
- Confirm your current balance and last accrual date.
- Ask HR, in writing, how the final payout is calculated.
Estimate your PTO value
If you’re hourly, the PTO value is often:
unused PTO hours × hourly rate
If you want to run scenarios, use:
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Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws and policies change. For official guidance, consult Florida resources or a qualified employment attorney.