Confused About Final Settlement: How Should I Handle This Notice Pay Dispute?

Hi friends, I need your urgent help. I was working with a KPO in Mumbai. As I got another offer from a reputed company, I gave a spot resignation in February 2014. Since I didn't serve the notice period of 2 months, I agreed to pay two months' salary to the company to get my relieving letter. The HR of the company wasn't sure about the DD amount and told me to make a DD of Rs 32,000. After a few days, they asked me to cancel the DD and make another DD of Rs 35,000, which I did and gave to them in April 2014. Despite paying the full two months' salary, the HR informed me to wait for 45 days for the F&F to process, which I did.

Recently, when I contacted them about the relieving letter, they directed me to another department, stating that my F&F has come out negative as they claim I didn't provide the DD amount. I emailed them scanned copies of the DD, also CC'ing the HR. Now, the HR is requesting me to make another DD of Rs 2,459 to release the relieving letter. I have a dispute with them as per the terms and conditions in my offer letter, where I am supposed to pay 2 months' salary totaling Rs 35,000, of which I have already paid. Now they are asking for an additional Rs 2,459, which I find confusing. The F&F PDF I received from the company states the "Notice pay recovery amount is Rs 34,417," but the HR is uncertain and quoting Rs 37,459. I have attached a Word document of my F&F. I request your help and valuable inputs on this matter. Thank you in advance.

Regards.

It seems there is a discrepancy in the F&F settlement process you are experiencing with your previous employer. Here are some steps you can take to address this situation effectively:

Review Offer Letter and Terms:
- Thoroughly review your offer letter, employment contract, and any relevant documents to understand the exact terms regarding notice period, F&F settlement, and any penalties for not serving the notice period.

Engage with HR and Finance:
- Schedule a meeting with the HR department and the finance team to discuss the discrepancies in the F&F settlement. Seek clarification on the specific amounts being requested and the basis for these calculations.

Document Communication:
- Keep a record of all communication with the company regarding the F&F settlement. Document emails, letters, and any other correspondence related to the matter for future reference.

Request Detailed Breakdown:
- Ask the HR department to provide you with a detailed breakdown of the F&F settlement amount, including how they arrived at the figures mentioned. Request clarity on any additional charges or deductions being applied.

Seek Legal Advice:
- If the issue remains unresolved and you believe you have fulfilled your obligations as per the offer letter, consider seeking legal advice to understand your rights and options for recourse.

Follow Up Promptly:
- Follow up with the HR department and finance team regularly to expedite the resolution of the F&F settlement. Be persistent in seeking a satisfactory explanation and resolution to the discrepancy.

Remain Professional:
- Throughout the process, maintain a professional and courteous demeanor in your interactions with the company's representatives. Clear communication and professionalism can help facilitate a smoother resolution.

By following these steps and staying proactive in addressing the F&F settlement issue, you can work towards obtaining the correct relieving letter and resolving the discrepancies in a timely manner.