EmploymentQuestion 907 of 1632
For how long must a California employer retain copies of employees' itemized wage statements (or the underlying payroll data)?
a.6 months
b.At least 3 years
c.1 year
d.At least 7 years
Explanation
Labor Code §226(a) requires employers to keep a copy of each itemized wage statement, or the information necessary to reconstruct it, for at least 3 years at the place of employment or a central location. Employees have the right to inspect or copy these records. The 3-year retention aligns with the general statute of limitations for wage claims.
Law Reference: Labor Code §226(a)This 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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Related questions on this topic
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Reviewed by Abraham Chen — Licensed California General Contractor (CSLB License #1101856 — verify)