NUSPM

NUSPM

A missed payment can become serious quickly. Act early, remain factual and protect your safety. A good evidence file helps a union representative or adviser understand the amount, dates and responsible parties.

Notice the early signs

Warning signs include changing pay dates, unexplained partial payments, repeated promises without bank confirmation, missing statements, pressure to sign false receipts, or several crewmates experiencing the same delay.

Save the core documents

Collect lawful copies of:

Create a table with each pay period, amount due, amount received and balance. Keep records off the vessel where possible. Do not alter originals.

Raise the issue safely

Ask payroll or the responsible officer for a written explanation and a firm payment date. Use the onboard complaint process if appropriate. Speak carefully with crewmates: shared evidence can show a pattern, but nobody should be pressured or placed at risk.

Contact NUSPM or ITF with a concise summary and your documents. The ITF non-payment guidance, ITF wages guidance, and ITF Your Rights explain available support routes.

If the situation may be abandonment

Non-payment can be one part of abandonment, especially when the owner also fails to provide necessities or arrange repatriation. Do not diagnose the legal status yourself. Tell the union or relevant authority the full facts so qualified people can assess it.

Avoid these mistakes

Evidence checklist