Whether working from home part-time or full-time, remote workers are entitled to the same rights under California labor law, and in some cases, additional protections under local ordinances.
If your protections as a remote worker are being violated, contact our Los Angeles employment law attorney at Aegis Law Firm to file a claim today. Schedule a free consultation.
The location where the employee performs work—not where the company is headquartered—usually determines which labor laws apply. For example, if a remote worker performs their job duties within Los Angeles County or the City of Los Angeles, then both California state laws and applicable Los Angeles municipal labor laws govern that employment.
Remote workers in Los Angeles benefit from several core protections, including:
As of July 1, 2024, employers in unincorporated areas of Los Angeles County must pay workers the correct minimum wage of at least $17.27 per hour. This rate will increase to $17.81 per hour starting July 1, 2025.
Remote employees are entitled to overtime pay under California law. Employees must receive 1.5 times their regular rate of pay for hours worked over 8 in a day or 40 in a week, and double time for hours over 12 in a day.
Employers must provide a 30-minute meal break for every five hours worked and a 10-minute rest break for every four hours worked. These rules apply even when work is done from home.
If these laws are not followed, contact our Los Angeles meal and break violation attorney to discuss your legal options. Schedule a free consultation with Aegis Law Firm today.
Under California Labor Code Section 2802, employers must reimburse employees for all necessary expenses incurred during job performance. For remote workers, this may include internet service, computer equipment, phone use, and other home office-related costs.
Employees working in Los Angeles are entitled to paid sick leave under both state and city law. The City of Los Angeles mandates at least 48 hours of paid sick leave annually for employees working 30 or more days within a year.
Employers must track and manage hours worked by remote employees just as they would with on-site staff. This includes monitoring overtime, maintaining accurate records, and ensuring compliance with wage laws. Failure to pay proper wages or to comply with break laws may result in penalties, wage claims, and lawsuits.
Remote workers have full protection under California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) and federal anti-discrimination laws. Employers may not discriminate based on race, gender, disability, age, or other protected categories. Additionally, retaliation for reporting wage violations, harassment, or safety concerns is unlawful, whether the employee works in an office or at home.
If you have been discriminated against at work, contact our Los Angeles employment discrimination lawyer at Aegis Law Firm today.
If you believe your employer is violating labor laws while you work remotely, you have the right to take action. Steps you can take include the following:
Consult a Los Angeles employment law Aatorney to understand your rights, especially if you face retaliation or continued violations.