ARTICLE
26 March 2025

The Basics On Paydays And Pay Periods For Employers In California

JL
Jackson Lewis P.C.

Contributor

Focused on employment and labor law since 1958, Jackson Lewis P.C.’s 1,000+ attorneys located in major cities nationwide consistently identify and respond to new ways workplace law intersects business. We help employers develop proactive strategies, strong policies and business-oriented solutions to cultivate high-functioning workforces that are engaged, stable and diverse, and share our clients’ goals to emphasize inclusivity and respect for the contribution of every employee.
California law mandates that employers establish regular paydays and notify employees of these dates. A model notice is available on the Labor Commissioner's website.
United States California Employment and HR

As an employer in California, it's necessary to understand and comply with the state's payday laws.

California law mandates that employers establish regular paydays and notify employees of these dates. A model notice is available on the Labor Commissioner's website.

The frequency of paydays depends on the type of work and the agreement between the employer and the employee.

  • Weekly, Biweekly, or Semimonthly: Most employees must be paid at least twice a month. The specific payday must be designated in advance.
  • Monthly: Executive, administrative, and professional employees may be paid once a month.

Employers may change the designated payday, so long as employees are given prior notice, and the new payday complies with the requirements under California law.

Employers must pay employees promptly on the designated payday.

  • Weekly/Biweekly: Wages earned between the 1st and 15th of the month must be paid by the 26th of the same month. Wages earned between the 16th and the end of the month must be paid by the 10th of the following month.
  • Semimonthly: Wages earned in the first half of the month must be paid by the 26th, and wages earned in the second half must be paid by the 10th of the following month.
  • Monthly: Wages must be paid by the 26th of the same month.

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.

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