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What should I do if my employer isn’t paying me correctly?

Posted on behalf of Arnold Law Firm on February 9, 2026

If you believe your employer is violating California wage and hour laws — by not paying overtime, skipping meal or rest breaks, paying below minimum wage, or failing to reimburse business expenses — you should:

  1. Keep your own records of hours worked, breaks taken (or missed), and pay received
  2. Review your pay stubs — California law requires detailed, accurate pay stubs (Labor Code § 226), and violations can result in penalties
  3. Raise the issue with HR or your supervisor in writing, if you feel safe doing so
  4. File a wage claim with the California Labor Commissioner (DLSE), or
  5. Consult an employment attorney — Arnold Law Firm can help determine whether you have an individual claim or a potential class action on behalf of other affected workers

The statute of limitations for most wage claims is 3 years, or 4 years with a UCL claim. Don’t wait. Penalties and interest accrue over time, and evidence can be lost.