Ferraro Vega Employment Lawyers help workers in California when they face unpaid wages. This can happen in a variety of ways, but it frequently happens when it comes to your mileage. While the law says you should be reimbursed for your mileage and other travel expenses, your employer might try to get around it. We will be there to stand up for you. Get started today with a free consultation.
Is It Worth Getting a Lawyer for Unpaid Mileage?
It might not seem like a big deal at first. Maybe it’s just a few dollars here and there. But over time, unpaid mileage can cost you hundreds–or even thousands–of dollars. And the longer it goes unchecked, the more you lose. That’s where we come in. Our team at Ferraro Vega Employment Lawyers can help you:
- Figure out what you’re really owed – We’ll go over your driving logs, timecards, or delivery routes to calculate exactly what’s missing.
- Talk with your employer – Sometimes a simple demand letter is enough to get things moving. If not, we’ll negotiate on your behalf.
- Take legal action if needed – If your employer still refuses to pay, we can file a claim to recover your unpaid mileage–and possibly additional penalties.
This isn’t just about inconvenience. It’s about money you’ve already earned. If you’re a California worker and your employer is shortchanging you on mileage, we’re ready to help you take the next step.
What Does California Law Say About Being Paid For My Mileage?
In California, if you’re using your personal vehicle for work-related tasks–whether it’s driving between job sites, delivering items, or meeting with clients–the law says you’re to be paid for “mileage reimbursement.” Under California labor law, employers must cover:
- All necessary business expenses, including the use of your personal vehicle.
As of 2025, the standard IRS reimbursement rate is 70 cents per mile–and while it’s not mandatory for employers to use that exact rate, whatever they pay you still has to reasonably cover your actual costs. Still, some employers try to cut corners. We often see:
- Calling driving “optional” – If it’s part of your job duties, it’s not optional. Mileage must be reimbursed.
- Offering flat rates – Flat amounts usually don’t come close to covering fuel, wear and tear, or maintenance.
- Misclassifying workers – Employers might label you as an independent contractor to avoid reimbursing expenses they legally owe.
- Calling it a commute – Regular commutes to and from work aren’t reimbursable, but travel between job sites or client visits is.
- Delaying or ignoring claims – Some employers just don’t respond and hope you’ll let it go.
Whatever excuse they use, failing to cover your work-related travel costs violates California’s basic legal protections–and you don’t have to let it slide.
What Are My Legal Options for Unpaid Mileage in California?
Unpaid mileage may not seem huge at first, but the losses stack up quickly. If you’ve been covering job-related travel with no reimbursement, you may have one or more legal options in California, including:
- Bringing a wage claim with the Labor Commissioner’s Office – The California Department of Labor Standards Enforcement (DLSE) can review your complaint and help resolve the issue.
- Filing a lawsuit – If your employer won’t make it right and the Labor Commissioner’s Office ruling isn’t adequate, you can sue your employer in civil court for the money you’re owed. If this is happening company-wide, you and your coworkers can take action together with a “class action” lawsuit. With a lawsuit, you (and your coworkers in class action) might be able to recover “damages” for:
- Full reimbursement for unpaid mileage
- Interest on any unpaid wages
- Reimbursement for related out-of-pocket costs (like car repairs, gas, etc.)
- Legal fees and court costs
- Possible costs relating to your emotional or financial strain
California’s statute of limitations typically gives you three years from the last time mileage was unpaid to take legal action–so don’t wait too long. If you miss this deadline, you lose your chance at taking action at all. That should be enough for you, but practically speaking, the sooner you think about legal options, the easier it’ll be to take the right steps for a solid claim.
How Can I Build a Solid Mileage Reimbursement Claim?
To hold your employer accountable under the law, you’ll need to back up your claim with details. Thankfully, these cases are usually pretty straightforward once the documentation is in place. Here’s what to do:
- Log every mile – Use an app, calendar, or spreadsheet to track when and why you drove for work.
- Save receipts – Gas, tolls, and parking fees help show the out-of-pocket costs you had to cover.
- Keep records of communications – Emails or texts with your employer asking for mileage reimbursement (or showing that it was denied or ignored) are powerful evidence.
- Review your job description or company policies – Even informal agreements can support your claim.
- Talk to coworkers – If others weren’t paid either, it could strengthen your individual claim—or lead to a class action.
Like most things, the more organized your records are, the stronger your case becomes. And if you’re not sure where to start, we can help you get everything in order.
Contact Ferraro Vega Employment Lawyers For an Unpaid Mileage Claim in California
If your employer isn’t reimbursing you for mileage in California, you’re not being picky—you’re protecting your rights. You’ve already spent your time and your money to do your job. Now it’s time to make sure you’re paid for it.
Our team at Ferraro Vega Employment Lawyers knows how to hold employers accountable for unpaid travel expenses. We’ll walk you through your options and help you move forward. Get started today with a free, no-obligation consultation.