Los Angeles County
California Workplace Reimbursement Attorney

At Seligson Law., we help workers across California stand up to employers who fail to reimburse them for expenses they should not have to pay out of pocket. If you’ve been using your phone, internet, car, or personal equipment for your job and not getting paid back, your employer may be breaking the law. You shouldn’t have to pay to work.

Led by attorney Ken Seligson, our team represents employees across Los Angeles County, helping them recover unpaid reimbursements and wages. We take a clear, down-to-earth approach so you always know what to expect and where your case stands.

What Is a Reimbursement Violation in California?

Under California Labor Code § 2802, employers must reimburse employees for all reasonable and necessary expenses incurred while performing their job duties. If your employer benefits from your use of personal resources, they are required to cover the cost.

Common reimbursable expenses include:

Cell phone bills for work calls, texts, and apps
Home internet for remote or hybrid work
Mileage and fuel for client visits or traveling between work sites
Tools, uniforms, or supplies required for the job
Licensing, certifications, or training fees

If your employer has ignored or denied these reimbursements, you may be entitled to repayment plus additional penalties.

How Much Could You Be Owed?

The amount varies depending on:

The types of expenses you’ve paid
How often you’ve used personal devices or equipment for work
How long this has been happening

For employees using phones or the internet daily, these costs can add up to hundreds or even thousands of dollars per year. In some cases, you may also be entitled to:

Interest on unpaid expenses
Penalties for willful violations
Attorney’s fees

Protecting Workers From Unpaid Expenses Across Los Angeles and the Central Valley

No employee should be forced to pay out of pocket for the tools, technology, or travel their job requires. If your employer has refused to reimburse you for necessary expenses, our firm is here to help. California law, including Labor Code § 2802, requires employers to cover reasonable and necessary business costs, and we put that law to work for you.

We represent employees in reimbursement claims involving:

Cell phone and internet use for work communication
Mileage, fuel, and vehicle expenses for job-related travel

Tools, uniforms, and safety gear required for the job
Licensing, certification, and training fees demanded by employers

Home office costs for remote or hybrid work
Expenses wrongfully shifted to employees in retail, healthcare, delivery, sales, cannabis, and gig economy roles

At Seligson Law, we take the time to understand your situation, review your expenses, and create a legal strategy tailored to recovering the money you are owed.

Our Process for Workplace Reimbursement Claims

At Seligson Law, our process is built on transparency and trust. Here’s what you can expect:

Initial Consultation

We start with a private, confidential consultation to listen to your experience and assess potential claims.

Strategic Planning

We explain your rights and outline your legal options—including agency filings, settlement talks, or litigation.

Action & Advocacy

Our attorneys act swiftly to file the necessary claims, respond to employer pushback, and protect you at every turn.

Resolution & Results

Whether through settlement or trial, we pursue outcomes that provide closure and justice.

Get started today: 213-293-6692

FAQs

What does California law say about job-related expense reimbursement?

Under Labor Code § 2802, employers must reimburse employees for all reasonable and necessary job-related expenses. This law applies broadly across industries. If your work benefits your employer, they are responsible for the cost, not you.

What if I get a stipend for using my phone or internet?

That’s allowed, but if the stipend doesn’t fully cover your actual costs, your employer may still owe you the difference. Employers cannot shift business expenses onto workers by offering less than what the law requires.

I never submitted receipts. Can I still get reimbursed?

Possibly. If you weren’t told how to submit expenses or were discouraged from doing so, you may still have a valid claim. Courts often consider whether the employer made reimbursement realistically possible.

How long do I have to file a claim?

You generally have three years from the date of the unreimbursed expense to file a claim. Acting quickly helps preserve your evidence. The sooner you file, the easier it is to recover full compensation.

What if I’m classified as an independent contractor?

Reimbursement protections usually apply to employees. However, if you were misclassified, you may still be eligible for reimbursement and other benefits. Misclassification claims can also open the door to recovering unpaid wages or overtime.

What’s the first step I should take?

Start documenting your expenses and contact Seligson Law at 213-293-6692 or intake@seligsonlaw.com for a free case review. Even a small pattern of unreimbursed expenses can add up to significant compensation.

Contact Our California Workplace Reimbursement Attorney in Los Angeles County

If you’ve been paying out of pocket for work-related expenses, it’s time to learn whether your employer owes you money. At Seligson Law, we hold employers accountable and help workers across California recover reimbursement and lost wages. Contact us today at 213-293-6692 or email intake@seligsonlaw.com.

Get started today: 213-293-6692