Factory Worker Refuses to Return $87,000 Mistakenly Paid

A factory worker in 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 individual, identified as Vladimir Rychagov, initially believed he had received a substantial bonus, but the windfall turned out to be a mistake that involved the salaries of 34 of his coworkers.

When Rychagov checked his banking app, he was surprised to see a deposit that far exceeded his usual monthly pay of 46,000 rubles (about $580). Instead of questioning the unexpected amount, he accepted it as a potential reward for a strong year at the factory. However, shortly after, the accounting department contacted him, explaining that the payment was a technical glitch and demanded the money be returned.

Rychagov, after conducting research, asserted that he was not legally obligated to repay the money. He stated, “After checking the internet, I found that if it was a technical error, I didn’t have to return it,” during an interview with Russia’s Channel 5. He maintained that the deposit appeared under the same company name as his paycheck, leading him to believe it was rightfully his.

According to court documents referenced by Oddity Central, the funds were intended for a different branch, not Rychagov’s. The employer, represented by acting CEO Roman Tudachkov, insisted on the return of the funds, emphasizing that the transfer was never meant to be part of Rychagov’s salary and that he was legally required to repay it.

Facing mounting pressure from the company, Rychagov used a portion of the funds to purchase a car and relocate his family. This decision prompted the factory to file a lawsuit against him and freeze his bank accounts. Initially, he was accused of conspiring with an accountant, but these allegations did not result in a conviction. Nevertheless, both trial and appellate courts ruled in favor of the factory, ordering Rychagov to repay the amount.

The case has now escalated to the Supreme Court of Russia, where Rychagov has lodged another appeal. Despite the legal turmoil, he remains unfazed, stating, “December’s salary was credited, plus there were rumors about a large 13th salary. That suggested the facilities closed well.”

Tudachkov has kept the company’s comments on the matter brief, declaring, “There was no 13th salary involved. It was an erroneous transfer. We have a court order and will handle this through the legal system.”

While the outcome of the case remains uncertain, Rychagov’s brief experience with the unexpected payment has resonated with many who empathize with underpaid workers dreaming of a financial windfall.