Your Contract Won't Save You - Seven Months of Chasing Unpaid Wages as a Remote Developer

In January, the reporter began working as a frontend developer for Loxala Global Inc., a Delaware-based startup with a New York address. After two months, they had not received payment. They decided to share their story because they believe that a signed contract does not guarantee payment, especially for remote developers.

The reporter had a signed employment contract with the company, which explicitly stated they were a full-time employee. They also provided email correspondence from the company's legal address acknowledging the debt and a final payment agreement signed by the CEO on September 18, stating a payment of $5,465 due by October 6. Despite these documents, the reporter only received $644.92 over seven months.

On October 6, they received another request for an extension. The reporter believes the issue is not with the paperwork, but with enforcement. They are currently located in Portugal, while the company is a Delaware corporation with a New York address. The amount owed is substantial, making it difficult and expensive to pursue legal action.

The reporter advises remote developers to get paid in smaller, early milestones rather than relying on contracts. They received a referral from a trusted client, but still recommend thoroughly reviewing all signed documents. They also emphasize the importance of understanding the company's and its employees' locations before starting work. The full timeline of their experience can be found on Medium.