Is an employer allowed to withhold wages from an employee?

In California, employers are generally not allowed to withhold wages from an employee. The state of California has specific laws that regulate how employers can use funds received from an employee’s wages, and those laws generally forbid employers from withholding wages. Wages are defined as “all amounts for labor performed by employees” and cannot be deducted for any purpose. This includes deductions for uniforms, tools, training materials, and any other items connected to the job that would otherwise come from wages. Additionally, any deductions from wages must be voluntary and agreed to by both the employee and employer. Additionally, employers can never deduct wages to cover losses due to employee theft or to recover damages. This type of deduction is considered an illegal wage reduction and is punishable by law. The only exceptions to this rule are deductions that are required by law, such as taxes and garnishments. Other deductions, such as those made for 401(k) contributions or health insurance, must be agreed upon by both the employer and employee. In summary, in California, employers are generally not allowed to withhold wages from an employee. The only exceptions are deductions required by law, such as taxes and garnishments, or deductions agreed upon by both the employee and employer.

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