California: final paycheck rules
When your employer must hand over your last paycheck if you are fired or quit, and whether unused vacation must be paid out.
Single detailed source| Deadline if you are fired or laid off | Same day |
|---|---|
| Deadline if you quit | Within 72 hours (immediately with 72 hours' notice) |
| Unused vacation pay | Yes, all earned vacation |
| Law | Lab. Code 201-203, 227.3 |
If your employer misses the deadline, you can file a wage claim with your state labor department; many states add penalties. Federal law has no final-pay deadline.
General information only, not legal, insurance or financial advice. Not affiliated with any government agency. Exceptions can apply. Confirm with the state agency, the court or a licensed professional in California.
Also for California: Workers' comp deadlines in California · Workers' comp benefits in California · Paid leave programs in California · Minimum wage in California · Unemployment benefits in California · Meal break laws in California · Tipped minimum wage in California · Payday frequency in California · Rest break laws in California
How we checked this
Deadlines come from a statute-cited 50-state final pay survey updated in 2026. States with no final-pay statute are shown as having no deadline. Last checked: November 12, 2026. Laws change; confirm with the state agency or a licensed professional before acting.
Cross-checked sources agree Checked on official source confirmed on a government, court or legislature site Single detailed source one detailed table built from statutes or official data Under review sources disagree; read the note and the law.