EmploymentQuestion 907 of 1605
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)Practice all 1605 questions free — no signup required.
Related questions on this topic
- An employer willfully fails to pay a discharged employee's final wages on time. What 'waiting time penalty' may the employee recover?
- Which of the following is NOT among the items California law requires an employer to include on an itemized wage statement (pay stub)?
- How often must a California employer furnish an itemized wage statement to employees?
- A current employee submits a written request to inspect and copy her payroll records. Within how many days must the California employer comply?
- A carpenter must buy specialized safety boots and use his personal cell phone for job scheduling required by the employer. Under California law, who bears these costs?
- Under California's 'ABC test' for worker classification, a worker is presumed to be an EMPLOYEE unless the hiring entity proves all three prongs. Which of the following is one of those prongs?
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Reviewed by Abraham Chen — Licensed California General Contractor (CSLB License #1101856 — verify)