At Seligson Law, At Seligson Law, we hear from workers across California facing workplace reimbursement violations after being forced to pay out of pocket to do their jobs. Whether it’s your cell phone, internet, mileage, tools, or other job-related expenses, if your employer isn’t reimbursing you, they may be breaking California law.
Led by attorney Ken Seligson, our firm represents workers in California, helping them recover unpaid wages and expenses. If you’ve been footing the bill for work-related costs, you might be owed money, and we’re here to help you understand what your rights are.
What Is a Workplace Reimbursement Violation?
California law requires employers to reimburse employees for all necessary expenses or losses incurred while doing their job. This is outlined in California Labor Code Section 2802, which protects employees from having to absorb the cost of doing business.
Common examples include:
- Using your personal cellphone to communicate with clients or managers
- Working from home and using your internet connection
- Driving your own car for work-related tasks (not your commute)
- Purchasing tools, equipment, or uniforms
- Paying for training, certifications, or licensing fees required for the job
If your employer benefits from your purchase or use of something, and you need it to perform your job, they’re generally responsible for reimbursing you.
Why This Is Such a Common Violation
Many employers either don’t understand the law or assume their workers won’t push back. Others may have vague policies, fail to explain how to submit expenses, or simply ignore reimbursement altogether.
This often shows up in industries like:
- Retail
- Sales
- Hospitality
- Delivery services
- Remote and hybrid jobs
In all of these, it’s common for workers to use their phones, cars, and internet connections to stay in touch or get the job done,without ever being paid back.
How Employers Try to Get Around the Law
Some common employer tactics we see at Seligson Law include:
- Saying the expense is “minimal”
- Claiming that because no receipts were submitted, they don’t have to pay
- Including small stipends that fall short of covering actual expenses
- Misclassifying workers as independent contractors
Keep in mind: even if your employer offers a phone or mileage stipend, it must cover your actual costs. If it doesn’t, they still owe you the difference.
How Much Could You Be Owed?
The amount owed depends on:
- The kind of expenses you’ve had
- How often they occurred
- How long you’ve been working without reimbursement
If you use your phone, internet, or vehicle for work on a daily or weekly basis, your claim could add up quickly, especially over several months or years.
In some cases, you may also be entitled to:
- Interest on unpaid reimbursements
- Penalties if the employer knowingly failed to pay
- Attorney’s fees if you bring a successful claim
What You Can Do If You Think Your Employer Owes You Reimbursement
Here are a few steps to take if you believe you’re not being properly reimbursed:
1. Start Documenting
Keep records of:
- Texts, calls, or emails for work
- Phone or internet bills
- Mileage logs
- Receipts or invoices for work-related purchases
2. Don’t Delay
California has a three-year statute of limitations for reimbursement claims, but the sooner you act, the better your documentation will be.
3. Talk to a Lawyer
Even if you’re unsure whether your expenses qualify, a consultation with a lawyer can help clarify your options. Many cases involve gray areas that employers rely on to avoid paying. A wage and hour attorney can help you cut through that.
How Seligson Law Can Help
We take the stress out of navigating reimbursement violations. Our team helps workers throughout California recover what they’re owed, whether it’s through direct negotiation, administrative claims, or court proceedings when necessary.
When you contact us, we will:
- Review your situation and expenses
- Help you understand your legal options
- Gather and organize documentation
- Communicate with your employer on your behalf
- Work to recover full compensation for unpaid expenses
You don’t need to go through this alone, and you don’t need to guess what your rights are. We’re here to help you make it right.
Contact a California Reimbursement Lawyer Today
If you’ve had to cover work-related costs with your own money, it’s time to take the next step. At Seligson Law, we’ll walk you through your rights, evaluate your claim, and help you recover what you’re owed.
Call 213-293-6692 or email intake@seligsonlaw.com to schedule a free and confidential consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What does California law say about reimbursement?
Under California Labor Code § 2802, employers must reimburse employees for all reasonable and necessary expenses they incur while doing their job. This includes phones, internet, mileage, and more.
2. What if my employer gives me a stipend for phone or internet use?
Stipends are legal but must fully cover your actual expenses. If they don’t, your employer may owe you the difference.
3. Can I still be reimbursed if I never submitted receipts?
Possibly. Even if you didn’t submit formal expense reports, you may still have a valid claim, especially if your employer failed to inform you of the process or discouraged you from submitting them.
4. How long do I have to file a reimbursement claim?
You typically have up to three years from the date of the unreimbursed expense to file a claim in California.
5. Does this apply if I’m an independent contractor?
Labor Code § 2802 only applies to employees. However, many workers are misclassified as independent contractors. If that’s the case, you may still have a claim.
6. What should I do first if I think I’ve been underpaid for work-related expenses?
Start documenting everything:bills, communications, your work schedule, and then reach out to an employment attorney for a review. You can contact Seligson Law at 213-293-6692 or email intake@seligsonlaw.com.
