Is my employer allowed to deduct anything from my paycheck?

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Is my employer allowed to deduct anything from my paycheck?

California employers can make paycheck deductions only in very limited circumstances. They may be lawfully permitted to deduct or withhold wages from an employee’s paycheck for the following reasons:

  • State or federal law authorizes or requires the deductions.
  • The employee has provided written consent to cover insurance premiums or contributions to benefit plans.
  • To cover pension, welfare or health contributions authorized under a wage or collective bargaining agreement.

Some paycheck deductions often made by employers that can be illegal include payroll mistakes, partial-day absences, gratuities, business expenses, and costs of medical or physical examinations required by law or as a condition of employment. A company may only deduct the cost of a uniform, equipment or tools from a final paycheck if the items are not returned and the worker gave prior written consent.

If you believe your employer has unlawfully deducted wages from your paycheck, contact an experienced San Francisco employment attorney. Your employer may face penalties in addition to the wages owed to you. McCormack Law Firm can help you figure out if you have a valid claim.

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Client testimonials

This law firm was the only one to answer the phone out of the 15-20 law firms that I called that day. I had a wrongful termination case and Bryan really took the time to listen and understand what happened in my situation, and he knows the law to a T. – Shanic M.

I was owed wages and overtime and my employer refused to pay me. So I hired them to file a lawsuit. Bryan easily understood my very complicated case and I am happy with the results. – Ebi Z.

I didn’t have to pay anything, the firm took the whole risk of managing the case. Through the 14 months, Bryan always kept me updated, was very responsive and patient to questions I had. We achieved a resolution out of court in my favor, making me even happier about the experience. – Peter S.

I can honestly say that my experience with Bryan was all the way positive from day one… We had very high expectations about our case and in the end we got what we hoped for. – Roger J.

I won my trial and I got more than I expected. Everyone in the office is so nice and helpful. Even after everything was finished I could call a few weeks after and ask questions to make sure I was protected and they are more than helpful. – Husain N.

I never had to pay Bryan anything up front, nor was ever pressured to settle early. We ended up settling morning of the trial. Bryan is a really sharp, aggressive, seasoned attorney and knew the law inside and out about whistleblower cases. – Kyle B.

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