As an employee in California, you have the right to be reimbursed for certain expenses related to business travel. The California Labor Code requires employers to reimburse employees for all necessary expenses incurred during the course of their employment. If you are planning on traveling for work, it is important to understand your rights and what expenses you are entitled to be reimbursed for.
What is Covered Under the Law?
The California Labor Code requires employers to reimburse employees for all expenses that are necessary for them to perform their job duties. This includes expenses related to business travel, such as:
- Transportation (flight, train, rental car, etc.)
- Lodging
- Meals
- Parking and tolls
- Internet and phone charges
- Other necessary expenses
If your employer requires you to use your personal vehicle for work-related travel, they must reimburse you for mileage at the IRS-approved rate. As of 2021, the rate is 56 cents per mile for business use.
How Much Will I Be Reimbursed?
The amount you will be reimbursed depends on the actual expenses you incur while traveling for work. Your employer is required to reimburse you for all necessary expenses, so you should keep all receipts and submit them to your employer for reimbursement. If you use your personal vehicle for work-related travel, you should keep a record of the mileage you drive.
Your employer may have a policy in place that outlines the maximum amount they will reimburse for certain expenses. However, if your actual expenses exceed this amount, your employer is still required to reimburse you for the full amount.
What if My Employer Refuses to Reimburse Me?
If your employer refuses to reimburse you for necessary expenses related to business travel, you may have a legal claim against them. You should first try to resolve the issue with your employer by discussing the matter with your supervisor or HR department. If this does not work, you may need to seek legal assistance from an attorney who specializes in employment law.
It is important to note that your employer cannot retaliate against you for seeking reimbursement for necessary expenses. If you feel that you have been retaliated against, you should speak with an attorney immediately.
Conclusion
Employees in California have the right to be reimbursed for necessary expenses related to business travel. If you are planning on traveling for work, make sure to keep all receipts and submit them to your employer for reimbursement. If your employer refuses to reimburse you, seek legal assistance from an employment law attorney.
Q: What if my employer has a policy that is different from the California Labor Code? | A: Your employer must follow the California Labor Code, regardless of any policies they may have in place. |
Q: Does the California Travel Reimbursement Law apply to all employees? | A: Yes, the law applies to all employees who are required to travel for work. |
Q: Can my employer require me to use my personal vehicle for work-related travel? | A: Yes, your employer can require you to use your personal vehicle for work-related travel, but they must reimburse you for mileage at the IRS-approved rate. |