Local Rulebook

California

California final paycheck

When a final paycheck is due in California after someone is fired, laid off, or quits.

Fired or laid off

All final wages are due immediately, at the time of termination.

Source: California Labor Code section 201

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Quitting with notice

An employee who gives at least 72 hours' notice must be paid all final wages on the last day of work.

Source: California Labor Code section 202

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Quitting without notice

An employee who quits without 72 hours' notice must be paid within 72 hours.

Source: California Labor Code section 202

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Vacation and paid time off

Earned, unused vacation or paid time off is paid out with the final wages.

Source: California Labor Code section 227.3

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Late final pay

If an employer willfully pays final wages late, it owes a penalty of one day's wages for each day late, up to 30 days.

Source: California Labor Code section 203

Not yet checked against the primary source

This is a summary of state law. Cities can require more, and exceptions apply to some industries. It isn't legal advice.