California Paid Sick Leave: What You’re Owed and How to Claim It

Paid sick leave is a vital workplace protection that ensures California employees do not have to choose between their health and their paycheck. If you work in Los Angeles or elsewhere in the state, you may be entitled to this benefit under California law. Understanding your rights and how to claim them can help you avoid lost income and unfair treatment at work.

What You’re Owed Under California Sick Leave Laws

California law requires employers to provide paid sick leave to most employees who work for them for at least 30 days within a year. Key points include:

• Accrual Rate: You earn at least one hour of paid sick leave for every 30 hours worked.
• Usage: After 90 days of employment, you can begin using accrued sick leave.
• Annual Minimum: Employers must provide at least 40 hours or five days of sick leave per year. Some cities, like Los Angeles, may require even more generous benefits.
• Covered Reasons: Sick leave can be used for your own illness, a family member’s illness, preventive care, or issues related to domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking.

How to Claim Paid Sick Leave

If you need to use your sick leave, you must notify your employer—verbally or in writing—as soon as possible. Your employer cannot retaliate against you for using earned sick leave, and they cannot require you to find someone to cover your shift. If your employer refuses to provide paid sick leave or retaliates against you, you may have a legal claim.

Protecting Your Rights

If your employer violates California’s paid sick leave laws, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages and other damages. At Law Offices of David R. Denis, P.C., we help Los Angeles workers stand up for their rights and ensure that employers follow the law.