How to report wage theft in California
The exact agency, deadline, and paperwork to recover unpaid wages in California, verified by hand.
California Labor Commissioner's Office (Division of Labor Standards Enforcement)
Deadline
Most wage claims (minimum wage, overtime, missed meal and rest breaks, sick leave, illegal deductions) must be filed within 3 years. Claims tied to a written contract get 4 years; a bounced-check penalty claim gets 1 year. File against the earliest deadline that applies to your claim.
You start by filing DLSE's Initial Report or Claim online, by mail, or in person at a district office. A deputy labor commissioner reviews it for jurisdiction, then usually schedules a settlement conference between you and your employer before any hearing. If the conference does not resolve it, a hearing officer takes evidence and issues an Order, Decision, or Award that either side can appeal.
Gather this first
- Pay stubs showing your name, wages, pay period dates, and employer's name and address
- Your own record of hours worked, including missed breaks
- Any written employment contract or offer letter
- Your supervisor's or manager's name
File a wage claim with the Labor Commissioner or call 833-526-4636
Facts last verified against official sources: 2026-07-04
After you report
- Your report is logged and an investigator reviews it. They may contact you for more detail or reach out to your employer directly.
- There is no charge to file, and the agency can order the back wages you are owed paid without you going to court.
- You do not need a lawyer to start, and it is illegal for your employer to fire or punish you for filing in good faith.
Related guides
Back to federal options and other states
Not legal advice
GetSnitching explains programs and processes in plain English from official sources. Whistleblower and reporting decisions can carry real legal risk. For advice about your situation, talk to a licensed attorney. Many whistleblower attorneys offer free consultations.