California labor laws
The pay and leave rules California employers most often ask about: posting salary ranges, paid sick leave, overtime and state leave programs.
Last verified November 2, 2026. Sources: dir.ca.gov, dir.ca.gov.
Pay transparency
Status: in effect since January 1, 2023. Who's covered: 15+ employees (range on request: all employers).
pay scale in job postings; range on request; pay scale = range expected at hire (2026 amendment)
Employers may not ask applicants about their pay history.
San Francisco salary history ban
Paid sick leave
California requires paid sick leave: 1 hour per 30 hours worked, capped at use cap 40 hrs/5 days; accrual cap 80 hrs/10 days. Coverage: all employers.
Higher local rules: San Francisco, Los Angeles, Oakland, San Diego, Berkeley, others
Overtime
Non-exempt employees earn 1.5 times their regular rate for hours over 40 in a workweek under the Fair Labor Standards Act. Daily overtime: 1.5x after 8 hours/day and for first 8 hours on 7th consecutive day; 2x after 12 hours/day and after 8 hours on 7th day.
State paid leave and disability insurance
- State Disability Insurance (incl. Paid Family Leave): employees contribute 1.3% of wages. 1.3% of all wages in 2026; no taxable wage limit since 2024 (SB 951). EDD lists 1.4% for 2027, still no cap. Employee-paid only.
Frequently asked questions
- Does California require salary ranges in job postings?
- Yes. pay scale in job postings; range on request; pay scale = range expected at hire (2026 amendment) Coverage: 15+ employees (range on request: all employers).
- Is paid sick leave required in California?
- Yes. 1 hour per 30 hours worked, up to use cap 40 hrs/5 days; accrual cap 80 hrs/10 days.
- When is overtime due in California?
- For non-exempt employees, at 1.5 times the regular rate after 40 hours in a workweek. Daily overtime: 1.5x after 8 hours/day and for first 8 hours on 7th consecutive day; 2x after 12 hours/day and after 8 hours on 7th day.