One-line summary: California final-paycheck timing rules under Cal. Lab. Code §§ 201–203 — wages due immediately on involuntary termination, within 72 hours on resignation without notice, and on the last day if 72+ hours of notice given. Includes mandatory PTO/vacation payout (Lab. Code § 227.3) and waiting-time penalties of up to 30 days' wages (§ 203).

California Final-Pay Rules

California has strict timing requirements for final wages. Failure to comply can result in waiting-time penalties of up to 30 days' wages under Cal. Lab. Code § 203.

Timing of final paycheck

• Involuntary termination (including layoff): All final wages are due at the time of separation (Cal. Lab. Code § 201).
• Resignation with at least 72 hours' notice: All final wages are due on your last day (Cal. Lab. Code § 202).
• Resignation with less than 72 hours' notice: All final wages are due within 72 hours of your last day worked.

What's included in final wages

Your California final paycheck will include:

• All earned regular wages and overtime through your last day worked.
• All accrued and unused vacation / PTO, paid at your final rate of pay (Cal. Lab. Code § 227.3 — vacation/PTO is treated as wages in California and cannot be forfeited).
• Any approved expense reimbursements that have been submitted and processed.
• Any other earned compensation owed.

Method of delivery

Final wages will be paid by direct deposit (if you have authorized direct deposit and that authorization remains in effect) or by check at the place of termination. If you request, Launch will mail your final paycheck to the address you specify.

Waiting-time penalties

If Launch willfully fails to pay your final wages on time, you may be entitled to waiting-time penalties equal to your daily wage for each day the payment is late, up to a maximum of 30 days (Cal. Lab. Code § 203).

How to address concerns

If you believe your final paycheck is incorrect or late, contact HR at hr@launchindustries.biz immediately. You may also file a wage claim with the California Labor Commissioner at www.dir.ca.gov/dlse (opens in a new tab).

If you notice any outdated information or typos, or need clarification on any policies, please email hr@launchindustries.biz.