Non-exempt California employees are entitled to overtime at 1.5 times their regular rate for hours worked over 8 in a day or 40 in a week, and at 2 times for hours over 12 in a day or over 8 on the seventh consecutive day. California’s daily overtime rule is more protective than federal law and is one of the most frequently violated wage provisions in the state. Remember, even if you are being asked to only work a few minutes off-the-clock or after your shifts, this time adds up especially at overtime rates, and you deserve to be compensated for it.
Common violations include misclassification as exempt, off-the-clock work, automatic timekeeping deductions, failure to include bonuses in the regular rate, and rounding practices that systematically shortchange employees. Recoverable amounts include unpaid wages, interest, statutory penalties under Labor Code §§ 226 and 1194, waiting time penalties under § 203, and attorneys’ fees.
If you believe you have not been paid all of the wages you are entitled to, contact us immediately.