EmploymentQuestion 902 of 1632
A contractor fires an employee at the end of a Friday shift. When must the employer pay the employee's final wages, including all earned and unused vacation?
a.Within 15 days of termination
b.Immediately at the time of termination
c.By the next regular payday
d.Within 72 hours of termination
Explanation
Under Labor Code §201, when an employer discharges an employee, all earned and unpaid wages are due and payable immediately at the time of termination. This includes accrued, unused vacation, which California treats as earned wages. The 72-hour rule applies to employees who quit without notice, not to discharges.
Law Reference: Labor Code §201This topic, taught in full in the CSLB Law & Business guide. CSLB Law & Business — Complete Study Guide (2026) — PDF + EPUB, $24.99 · 14-day refund →
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PrepPass team · Verified against California CSLB Contractor License Law & Business Exam · How we review
Reviewed by Abraham Chen — Licensed California General Contractor (CSLB License #1101856 — verify)