Employer can't meet payroll, what can the employee do?

Curious as to why, and if this is temporary, what type of business, and also if the employees were informed there might be a problem and when they anticipate that funds will be available? By law they have to pay you. I would contact the Department of Labor at 1-866-487-2365 and find out how to file a complaint. Also your local labor board. If the company goes bankrupt recovery could be difficult if not impossible. In some cases the employee could sue and recover not only the wages, but attorney and court fees, and if the release of the money causes late fees on your bills or if you have a utility disconnected you can even recover the reconnection fees and if required to reconnect any security deposits associated with the reconnection. I hope this helps and good luck, Susu

Find another place to work unless you are sure the employer will be able to pay within a reasonable amount of time "with interest." In your new job you can start saving a little extra money so you can sue your previous employer for the money he owes you.