Wage/Hour Theft
Failing to Pay Wages to California Employees
Wage theft refers to employers withholding or not properly compensating workers for their labor. Examples of wage theft include:
- Being paid less than minimum wage per hour
- Not receiving agreed upon wages (including overtime on commissions, piece rate, and regular wages)
- Not accruing or not allowed to use paid sick leave
- Not being paid promised vacations or bonuses
- Not being paid split shift premiums
- Not receiving final wages in a timely manner
- Unauthorized deductions from pay
According to the Economic Policy Institute, wage theft costs U.S. workers as much as $50 billion per year — a number far higher than all robberies, burglaries, and motor vehicle thefts combined.
Employees rely on their wages to support themselves and their families, pay bills, and meet their basic needs. When an employer fails to pay an employee their rightful wages, it can can lead to a range of problems, including difficulty in meeting financial obligations, emotional stress, and strain on personal relationships.
In California, there are robust laws and regulations in place to protect the rights of workers, including strict guidelines for employers regarding wage payments. California Labor Code Section 204(a) states that all wages earned by an employee are due and payable twice a month on designated paydays. If an employer fails to pay an employee's wages on time, employees may be entitled to not only the unpaid wages but also additional damages, such as waiting time penalties. Additionally, California law requires employers to provide employees with accurate and itemized wage statements that specify details such as hours worked, rates of pay, and deductions made.
At EmpLaw LLP, our experienced employment law attorneys are well-versed in California's wage and labor laws. We provide comprehensive legal representation to employees in wage-related disputes. If you are an employee who has been denied rightful wages, we are here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn about your legal options.