Key Points Employers in California Should Know About Wage Payment Laws

California has among the country’s most comprehensive wage payment laws. A business or organization that breaches the state’s Labor Code can face serious financial sanctions. At Sloat Law Group, APC, we are committed to providing proactive workplace solutions for employers, including helping them navigate wage and hour issues. Within this blog post, our employment lawyer discusses the important posts employers in California should know about our state’s wage payment laws.

Employers Must Set Up a Regular Pay Period 

In California, employers are required to establish a regular pay period. Indeed, it is a requirement of state law that businesses and organizations set up a structure to ensure that their employees receive their wages consistently and on time. Most employers opt to pay their employees either weekly or bi-weekly and doing so allows for a predictable schedule for both parties.

 California Labor Code Sets Wage Payment Deadlines 

Wage payment laws in our state are governed, in large part, by California Labor Code Section 204, which sets the deadlines for when an employer is required to pay employees their wages . Here is an overview of the minimum monthly wage payment deadlines that employers must satisfy:

• Wages Earned in the First Half of Month: According to the California Labor Code, an employer must pay the employee wages earned during the first half of the month (from the 1st to the 15th) by the 26th of that same month.
• Wages Earned in the Second Half of Month: Conversely, an employer must pay the employee wages earned in the second half of the month (from the 16th to the end of the month) by the 10th of the following month.

Note: An employer in California that consistently pays employees’ wages weekly, bi-weekly or twice each month will satisfy these timing requirements set forth in California Labor Code Section 204.

Employers Must Pay Final Wages Upon Termination and Resignation 

California law also regulates final wage payment requirements. When an employee leaves a job—either voluntarily or involuntarily—it is imperative that employers pay their final wages in a timely manner. If an employee is terminated or laid off, employers are required to provide final wages immediately at the time of termination. However, if an employee resigns, the employer must pay the final wages within 72 hours of the employee’s notice of resignation. If you have any specific questions or concerns about final wage payment matters, an experienced California employment lawyer can help.

Set Up a Confidential Consultation With an Employment Lawyer in California

At Sloat Law Group, APC, we are proud to be advocates for workplace solutions. Have questions about wage payment laws? Our attorney can help. Call us now or contact us through our website for a fully confidential initial consultation. Our firm provides legal services to employers in Coachella Valley, Riverside County, and all across the State.

Source: 

codes.findlaw.com/ca/labor-code/lab-sect-204/