As part of California’s workforce, you are entitled to fair compensation for hours worked, including regular wages, overtime pay, and benefits. The state has established wage laws to protect worker rights, including minimum wage standards and overtime pay.

However, some employers try to get around these rules by underreporting hours and denying overtime pay. A recent report found that workers filed nearly 30,000 wage violation claims annually with the state, totaling more than $320 million in 2017.

Understanding your rights and the wage claims process can help you receive fair compensation if your employer violates the law.