BUSINESS EXPENSES
The Cost of Doing Business is Your Employer’s Responsibility.
Has your employer ever refused to pay you for work-related expenses that you paid for out of your own pocket? Under California law, employers must reimburse employees for all reasonable and necessary job-related expenses that they incur. Examples of common business-related expenses that your employer may be required to reimburse you for are:
Gas and mileage for use of a personal vehicle;
Use of personal cell phones or computers;
Use of home internet;
Costs of technology and software platforms required by the employer (e.g. video conferencing applications, word processing programs, etc.);
Business-related travel expenses;
Purchase and maintenance of uniforms;
Personal Protective Equipment (e.g., steel-toed boots, gloves, safety glasses, etc.)
Tools; and
Other supplies and materials.
California also prohibits employers from deducting or withholding wages from employees for cash shortages or damage to equipment that occurs during the regular course of business operations. Unless an employer can show that the shortage, loss, or damage was caused by an employee’s dishonesty, willful act, or negligence, these losses are considered part of the cost of doing business and must be borne by the employer.
If your employer has failed to reimburse you for work-related expenses or has withheld wages for shortages and losses, you may be entitled to compensation. Parker & Minne specializes in holding employers accountable for unlawful wage theft practices and can help you evaluate your options. Contact us today for a free initial consultation.