Wages & Compensation in California
California has some of the strongest wage protections in the nation. The California Labor Code and the Industrial Welfare Commission (IWC) Wage Orders establish minimum wage rates, overtime requirements, meal and rest break rules, and strict requirements for pay stubs and final pay. The Division of Labor Standards Enforcement (DLSE) enforces these protections.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current minimum wage in California?
As of January 1, 2026, the California minimum wage is $16.90 per hour for all employers regardless of size. Some cities and counties have higher local minimum wages. Additionally, fast food restaurant workers have a minimum wage of $20.00 per hour, and healthcare workers have tiered minimum wages starting at $18.00–$23.00 per hour depending on facility type.
When am I entitled to overtime pay in California?
Under California law, non-exempt employees are entitled to overtime pay at 1.5 times their regular rate for hours worked over 8 in a day or 40 in a week. Double time (2x regular rate) is required for hours over 12 in a day or over 8 on the seventh consecutive day of work. California's daily overtime threshold is more protective than federal law, which only requires weekly overtime.
What are my rights to meal and rest breaks?
Non-exempt employees are entitled to a 30-minute unpaid meal break for shifts over 5 hours, and a second meal break for shifts over 10 hours. You are also entitled to a paid 10-minute rest break for every 4 hours worked. If your employer fails to provide these breaks, you are owed one additional hour of pay at your regular rate for each violation.
What must be included on my pay stub?
California Labor Code § 226 requires detailed pay stubs showing: gross wages earned, total hours worked, piece rates (if applicable), all deductions, net wages, pay period dates, employee name and last four digits of SSN or employee ID, employer name and address, and all applicable hourly rates with hours at each rate. Violations can result in penalties of $50 for the first violation and $100 for subsequent violations.
When must my employer pay me after I leave my job?
If you are fired or laid off, your employer must pay all wages owed immediately at the time of termination. If you quit with at least 72 hours notice, wages are due on your last day. If you quit without notice, wages are due within 72 hours. If your employer willfully fails to pay on time, you may be entitled to waiting time penalties of up to 30 days of wages under Labor Code § 203.
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