Who has the right to first payment in the case of a business liquidation?

In the case of a business liquidation, workers typically have priority over other stakeholders when it comes to receiving their final payments, including wages, salaries, and any accrued benefits. This priority is grounded in both legal frameworks and ethical considerations, as employees depend on their earned compensation for their livelihood.

Employees' claims for unpaid wages often take precedence in liquidation proceedings, ensuring that they receive compensation owed to them before satisfying the claims of other parties, such as unsecured creditors or shareholders. Workers are classified as preferential creditors under many bankruptcy laws, which further solidifies their right to receive payment first.

This order of payment reflects the importance of safeguarding employees’ rights during financial distress, acknowledging their contribution to the business and the need for job security, especially during challenging times.