California Final Pay

When an employee's final paycheck must be paid depends upon whether the employee was terminated or they quit, and if they quit, when they provided notice of their intention. Failure to pay an employee's final wages when due can subject the employer to various penalties.

When the Employer Terminates the Employee

If the employment relationship ends because the employer terminates the employee, lays them off, or otherwise lets them go, the employee's final paycheck must be provided to them on their last day of work. (Labor Code § 201.) The employer is subject to various penalties if it waits until the next regularly scheduled payday to pay the employee their final wages. (Labor Code § 203.)

When the Employee Quits

If the employee voluntarily quits, and provides at least 72 hours notice, their final paycheck is due on their last day of work. If the employee voluntarily quits and provides less than 72 hours notice, the final paycheck is due not later than 72 hours after notice is provided. Additionally, the employee can request that their final paycheck be mailed to them, and the mailing must occur within the 72 hour period. (Labor Code § 202.)

What Must be Paid

All earned wages and accrued but unpaid vacation time must be paid to the employee. Expenses, however, do not need to be reimbursed until the normal time for reimbursement occurs.

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Mr. Kindsvater has assisted numerous individuals and businesses throughout California and the United States regarding California employment, business, and other legal issues.