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California: rules and deadlines at a glance
Every 11 topic we track for California on one page. Open a topic for the details, the law it comes from and how California compares.
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Workers' comp deadlines · Workers' comp benefits · Paid leave programs · Minimum wage · Final paycheck rules · Unemployment benefits · Meal break laws · Tipped minimum wage · Payday frequency · Rest break laws · Noncompete laws
General information only, not legal, insurance or financial advice. Not affiliated with any government agency. Exceptions can apply; open a topic for the details.
| Tell your employer | 30 days |
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| File a claim | 1 year from injury or last benefit provided |
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| Waiting period | 3 days |
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| Waiting days paid back | After more than 14 days (or if you are hospitalized) |
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| Max weekly benefit (2026) | – |
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| State program | Paid Family Leave and State Disability Insurance (SDI) |
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| Status | Paying benefits |
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Minimum wage Checked on official source
| State minimum wage | $16.90 |
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| Next change | $17.40 on Jan. 1, 2027 |
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| If you are fired | Same day |
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| If you quit | Within 72 hours (immediately with 72 hours' notice) |
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| Maximum weekly benefit | $450 |
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| How long it lasts | 14 to 26 weeks |
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| Meal break required | 30 minutes after more than 5 hours; a second 30 minutes after 10 hours |
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| Minimum cash wage | $16.90 |
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| Most tips can count | None: full minimum before tips |
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| Required frequency | At least twice a month for most workers |
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| Paid rest break | Paid 10 minutes per 4 hours worked |
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