California has stronger employment laws than most other states. California statutes also go beyond what the federal government requires in many cases. Overtime pay standards are far more robust in California than they are at the federal level.
Federal overtime regulations only take effect in cases where workers have worked 40 hours or more in one week. In such cases, hourly and non-exempt salary workers have a right to 150% of their usual hourly rate of pay.
However, for workers in California, there are additional circumstances that could lead to overtime pay. For workers asked to stay late due to a co-worker’s tardiness or those regularly scheduled to work long shifts, overtime pay may be necessary even if they do not put in more than 40 hours.
Eight hours is a standard shift
California law recognizes not just the 40-hour work week but also the eight-hour workday in most cases. While there are exceptions for certain industries, many hourly and non-exempt salaried employees are eligible for overtime pay if they are on the clock for more than eight straight hours.
Workers should receive 150% of their usual hourly pay for time past the eighth hour in one shift. They may be eligible for double pay if their employers keep them on the clock for more than 12 hours for a single shift.
If employers don’t follow the law, workers may need to file wage claims. Requesting compensation for overtime worked without proper pay can sometimes require legal action. Employees denied overtime wages can benefit from legal guidance in navigating the legal system and obtaining the pay they deserve.