Russian Factory Worker Refuses to Return Erroneous $87,000 Payment

A factory worker from Khanty-Mansiysk, Russia, is at the center of a legal dispute after he received an erroneous salary payment of over 7 million rubles (approximately $87,000). The man, identified as Vladimir Rychagov, initially thought he had received a long-anticipated “13th salary” bonus due to strong company performance. However, the payment was intended for 34 of his colleagues.

Upon checking his banking app, Rychagov was surprised to find a balance significantly higher than his usual salary of 46,000 rubles (around $580). Instead of returning the funds after being informed by the accounting department of the mistake, Rychagov decided to keep the money, believing he was entitled to it.

Legal Proceedings and Company Response

According to court documents referenced by Oddity Central, the funds were misallocated to Rychagov’s account due to a technical error. His employer maintained that since the transfer was not part of his legitimate salary, he was legally obligated to return the amount. Rychagov contested this claim, arguing that the payment was made by the same company that issued his paycheck and was labeled as “salary.”

As the situation escalated, Rychagov used part of the funds to purchase a car and relocate his family to another city. In response, the factory filed a lawsuit, subsequently freezing his bank accounts. Although Rychagov faced accusations of conspiring with an accountant, these charges were dismissed. Both trial and appellate courts ruled in favor of the factory, ordering Rychagov to repay the full amount.

Despite these legal setbacks, Rychagov has appealed the decision, and the case has now advanced to the Supreme Court of Russia.

Company Statements and Public Reaction

In public statements, the factory has kept its comments brief. Roman Tudachkov, the acting CEO, emphasized, “There was no 13th salary involved. It was an erroneous transfer. We have a court order and will handle this through the legal system.”

Rychagov remains unfazed by the situation, stating, “December’s salary was credited, plus there were rumors about a large 13th salary. That suggested the facilities closed well.” His case has sparked discussions about employee rights and the ethical implications of retaining funds received in error.

Though he may ultimately lose the legal battle, Rychagov experienced a brief moment of what many workers dream of—a sudden financial windfall. As the legal proceedings unfold, the outcome will likely have broader implications for how similar cases are handled in the future.