Can we charge a fee for paper paychecks?

Q. We require direct deposit of employee paychecks. We have one employee who hasn’t set up an account despite frequent requests. We have to mail his check from headquarters, sometimes via courier. Can we charge him a fee? — J.P., Illinois

A. Depending on your state’s law, it may not be legal to require employees to use direct deposit. Assuming it is legal, it is not a good idea to charge the employee a fee. It would be better to meet with the employee, ask him why he has not set up an account, and offer to assist him in the process. He or she may not realize how easy and convenient this will be or may be suspicious of the banking system. If so, explain it to him and offer assistance.