If you regularly use your personal cellphone or home internet connection for work, you might be leaving money on the table.
In California, employees are entitled to reimbursement for necessary work expenses. That includes the cost of tools and resources required to do your job, even if they’re digital.
At Seligson Law, we help workers across California understand and assert their rights on everything from unpaid wages to work-related reimbursements. Led by attorney Ken Seligson, our team knows how common it is for employers to quietly pass work costs onto employees.
We’re here to make sure that doesn’t happen to you.
California Law Requires Reimbursement for Necessary Expenses
California Labor Code Section 2802 requires employers to reimburse employees for all necessary expenses or losses they incur while doing their job.
The law is clear: if you have to use your own phone, laptop, or Wi-Fi to do your work, your employer may owe you money.
You do not need to prove the exact percentage of time you used your phone for work. Courts have ruled that if your job requires you to use your personal phone, some reimbursement is always required, even if you also use it for personal reasons.
Common Work Expenses That Should Be Reimbursed
Here are some of the most common out-of-pocket costs California employees are entitled to be paid back for:
- Cell phone use for clocking in and out, GPS, work calls, emails, texts, or company apps
- Home internet used for remote work, Zoom meetings, file uploads, research, work prep, or communication
- Personal laptops, tablets, or printers used for work tasks, emails, or document creation
- Work-related travel expenses (mileage, gas, parking, tolls, or public transportation fares)
- Office supplies or equipment purchased for your job, such as protective or safety gear, tools, and healthcare-related equipment
Are You a Remote or Hybrid Employee in California?
Since the pandemic, more people work from home than ever before. But even though your home might now be your office, your employer still has to pay for the cost of doing business.
Many remote workers are expected to:
- Join virtual meetings
- Upload files to cloud systems
- Respond to work texts and calls outside business hours
- Access work platforms and databases
All of this often requires personal Wi-Fi, electricity, and cell service. Under California law, you shouldn’t be footing the bill.
What If Your Employer Hasn’t Reimbursed You?
Many companies avoid paying these expenses by staying silent or relying on outdated policies. Others may expect employees to cover costs because they never updated their expense reimbursement procedures after shifting to remote or hybrid work models.
If you haven’t been reimbursed for work-related expenses, here’s what you can do:
- Document Everything: Save receipts, phone bills, emails, and records of your work activity.
- Ask HR or a Supervisor: Bring up the issue with your employer. Keep it in writing.
- Contact an Employment Lawyer: If your employer won’t reimburse you or ignores the request, legal help may be your best next step.
Having a lawyer who understands California employment laws can help you calculate what you’re owed and build a case to recover it. At Seligson Law, we guide clients through this process with clarity and support.
How Much Could You Be Owed?
The amount varies depending on how often you use your personal devices or internet for work. Even if your monthly phone bill is $60, and you use it for work regularly, you might be entitled to a portion of that every month, going back up to three years, plus attorneys’ fees.
If multiple expenses add up, or if the practice affects other coworkers, you could also have grounds for a group or class action claim.
Why Reimbursement Claims Matter
It’s not just about the money. When employers shift business costs onto their employees, it violates California labor laws and creates an unfair workplace. Holding them accountable helps protect your rights and those of others in your field.
If you’re unsure whether your situation qualifies, a quick conversation with a legal team can help you decide. Seligson Law offers confidential consultations and handles these matters discreetly and professionally.
Contact Seligson Law Today
If your employer hasn’t reimbursed you for work-related use of your phone, internet, or other personal tools, we’re here to help you get paid. California law is on your side, and we can guide you through every step.
Call Seligson Law at 213-293-6692 or use our contact form to schedule a free and confidential appointment. We help workers throughout California recover what they’re owed.
Frequently Asked Questions about using your personal phone for work
- What qualifies as a reimbursable work expense in California?
Any necessary cost you pay out of pocket to do your job, including phone use, internet, mileage, office supplies, and equipment. - Does my employer have to reimburse me for using my phone for work texts or calls?
Yes. If you’re required to use your personal phone for work, you’re entitled to reimbursement for a reasonable portion of that expense. - How far back can I claim unpaid reimbursements?
You can usually go back up to three years from when the unpaid expense occurred. - Can I be reimbursed if I use my home Wi-Fi for remote work?
Yes. If you’re required to work from home and use your personal internet, your employer should cover part of that cost. - What should I do if my employer refuses to reimburse me?
Start by putting your request in writing. If they still don’t pay, speak with an employment attorney. - Do I need to prove how much of my phone or internet I use for work?
You don’t need to track every minute. If any part of your job requires using personal services or devices, you are entitled to reasonable reimbursement. - How much will my consultation cost?
Your consultation is completely free and confidential. We will review your situation, answer your questions, and explain your options with no obligation to move forward.
