What explanation did the employer give when you asked him why he put the stop pay????
Also, if you were an independent contractor (freelance tour guide), this was not a paycheck. It was pay for services rendered.
Were these 'services' provided under a contract??
Send them a letter, certified mail, and advise them that you expect a cashiers check for your services, plus the cost of bank fees (bounces, etc.) giving them a break-down of the fees that 'their' action caused you. Then, if you don't receive your payment, considering suing them in small claims court. If this work was under contract, did they send it to you in Florida? If so, you can sue in your home state. If they don't file a change of venue, then you can apply your home state judgment to them in New York (using the sister-state judgment rule).
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Steve Halket
Judgment Recovery of Houston
[email protected]
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This is my PERSONAL OPINION and is not legal advice! Consult your local attorney for your specific situation and laws!