What should I do if my paycheck is missing hours?
If you notice that your paycheck doesn’t reflect all the hours you worked, it’s a good idea to speak to your employer about it sooner rather than later. Missing hours can happen for many reasons in California workplaces, from timekeeping errors to more serious wage violations.
Check your own records, such as timecards, shift schedules, emails or text messages that show the hours you worked. California labor law requires employers to keep accurate payroll records, but having your own documentation can make it easier to spot mistakes and explain what’s missing.
If you spot an error, raise the issue with your employer or payroll department. Doing so in writing can help create a clear record of when you reported the problem. In many cases, missing hours can be corrected once your employer is notified about them.
If your paycheck continues to have missing hours, you can take steps to recover the unpaid wages. California law requires employers to pay workers for all hours worked, including overtime when applicable. Employers who fail to do so may face penalties for violating labor laws. If you leave your job and are still owed wages, the employer may also be liable for waiting time penalties.
California law also doesn’t allow employers to retaliate against workers who speak up about wage and hour issues. If you are disciplined, demoted or fired after questioning your missing pay, speaking with an employment lawyer can help you understand your options for recovering unpaid wages.
Other Unpaid Wage, Overtime, and Commission FAQs:
- Am I entitled to meal breaks and rest breaks if I am working remotely?
- Are computer programmers and tech workers exempt from overtime?
- Are There Specific Documents or Records Required to Prove Unpaid Commissions?
- Can an employer disclose my immigration status if I file a claim for unpaid wages?
- Can I get fired for claiming overtime pay?
- Can I Take Legal Action Against My Employer For Unpaid Commissions?
- Can my employer change my commission plan or withhold commissions?
- Can my employer fire me for filing a wage claim?
- Can My Employer Withhold Commissions If I Resign or I’m Terminated?
- Can salaried workers earn overtime in California?
- Do I still get overtime if I am a commissioned salesperson?
- Does my employer have to pay me for off-the-clock work?
- Does my employer have to reimburse me for work expenses?
- How can a lawyer help with my claim for unpaid wages?
- How can I protect myself from wage theft?
- How can I tell if I am an independent contractor?
- How do I file a claim for unpaid wages?
- How do I know if I am entitled to overtime pay?
- How do I know if my employer needs to pay me overtime?
- How does California law protect me if I’m a part-time or contract worker?
- How is overtime pay calculated in California?
- How Long Does My Employer Have to Pay Me My Commissions After They’re Due?
- How much time do I have to file a wage claim in California?
- How much time do I have to file an overtime claim?
- If I receive a salary, am I exempt from overtime?
- If my employment is terminated, is my employer still required to pay me my commissions?
- Is my employer allowed to deduct anything from my paycheck?
- Is my employer allowed to deduct tips from my paycheck?
- Is my employer allowed to withhold my final wages after firing me?
- Is my employer required to pay for my meal break and rest breaks?
- My employer is forcing me to work through meal breaks. What should I do?
- What Are My Rights Regarding My Final Paycheck Once I Quit My Job?
- What are some examples of wage theft?
- What are the main differences between an independent contractor and an employee?
- What Are Unpaid Commissions in California?
- What is an exempt and non-exempt employee?
- What Is Not Considered A Commission?
- What is the minimum wage in California?
- What should I do if I suspect my employer is withholding wages?
- What should I do if my boss asks me to work off the clock?
- What should I do if my paycheck is missing hours?
- What types of damages can I get in a wage claim against my employer?
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