For employees, unreimbursed expenses can cause serious problems in today’s financial environment. Unreimbursed expenses are fees that a worker incurs while doing their job but are not reimbursed by their customer or employer. It can be difficult to navigate the unreimbursed expense legal landscape, which is why having a San Diego unreimbursed expenses lawyer on your side is essential for recovering appropriate compensation.
Why Choose Us?
At Ferraro Vega San Diego Employment Lawyers, we understand how difficult it must be to have work-related expenses and not be reimbursed for them. With years of representing clients in employment cases, we know the law and your rights. We can review the details of your situation, inform you of your potential options in your specific case, and create a plan to reach the most advantageous outcome on your behalf.
What Are Unreimbursed Expenses?
Unreimbursed expenses are funds that an employee spends for work-related purposes and are not reimbursed by their employer for them. Examples of unreimbursed expenses include:
- Travel expenses. If an employee traveled on behalf of their job, such as a required conference out of town, expenses incurred could be mileage, gas, car rental, airfare, parking fees, and tolls.
- Supplies. Supplies can include work uniforms, tools, software, technological equipment, and office supplies.
- Home office expenses. This is especially the case in jobs where a person has an employer (not self-employed) and works from home. Expenses for a home office can include a laptop, desk, internet, and other utilities.
- Training. Some jobs require training that may have to be paid for, including courses, certifications, books, and other educational materials.
Legal Protections for Unreimbursed Expenses in California
In San Diego and throughout California, there are legal protections in place for employees so they can be reimbursed for their work-related expenses. The California Labor Code Section 2802 states that employers are required to reimburse their employees for necessary work-related expenses. This includes expenses directly related to their duties or things their employer directed them to purchase.
These reimbursable costs also include legal fees if the employee must pursue legal action to receive the money they spent on work-related expenses.
Steps to Take to Receive Reimbursement
If you have made work-related purchases that were necessary to fulfill your job duties or were given by instruction of your employer in California, you may be entitled to reimbursement. When employers fail to reimburse you for these expenses, you may be able to file a claim against them. There are several actions you can take to ensure that you have done all you can and have everything you need if legal action is required.
- Keep all receipts. Keep receipts of every purchase, no matter how big or small. These can be hard copied or stored electronically. They are often the strongest proof you have of the expenses you incurred. You may also have credit card statements that show that you made these purchases out of your own finances.
- Take all avenues with your employer. Most employers have a process for being reimbursed, such as who to contact, how they receive receipts, and how they will reimburse you (such as a separate check or adding it to your paycheck). Make sure you are aware of company policy and that you’ve followed it correctly.
- Understand your rights. Be aware of the law. An unreimbursed expenses lawyer can help you understand your rights and if your expenses qualify for reimbursement. They can also guide you in the next steps if your employer still refuses to reimburse you.
How a Lawyer Can Help
A San Diego, unreimbursed expenses lawyer can help you take the appropriate actions if your employer does not reimburse you for work-related expenses. A San Diego employee reimbursement lawyer can review your expenses, company policies, and any agreements you made with your employer to ensure that you have a case. If you have a potential for recovery, they can provide you with a compelling legal strategy to recuperate your losses.
They can negotiate with your employer on your behalf in an attempt to rectify the situation without going to court. If your employer still refuses, an attorney can prepare a legal claim on your behalf and represent you through the legal process.
FAQs
Q: What Is the California Law for Expense Reimbursement?
A: The California law for expense reimbursement is outlined in California Labor Code 2802. This law states that employers must reimburse employees for expenses that are required for the job or that the employer requires the employee to purchase. Reimbursement expenses can include travel, tools, training, and home expenses. The purpose of the law is to protect employees from the financial burden of performing their jobs.
Q: Are Unreimbursed Employee Expenses Deductible?
A: Unreimbursed employee expenses are not deductible unless the employee falls under certain categories. These categories include Armed Forces reservists, state or local government officials who perform their duties on a fee basis, certain performing artists, and employees with experience in impairment-related work. Certain qualified educator expenses may also qualify as deductible.
Q: What Is the California Labor Code for Cell Phone Reimbursement?
A: The California Labor Code for cell phone reimbursement falls under the California Labor Code 2802, which states that employers are required to reimburse employees who pay for work-related expenses necessary for their job duties or any expenses they incurred due to instruction given by their employer.
Q: What Should I Do If My Employer Refuses to Reimburse My Expenses?
A: If your employer refuses to reimburse your expenses, you can seek compensation. First, document every expense. This can be through receipts, credit card statements, and any other documentation. Next, formally request reimbursement from your employer in writing. This way, you have documented evidence that you requested the reimbursement. If they still refuse, seek legal advice from an attorney for information on filing a claim.
Contact Ferraro Vega San Diego Employment Lawyers Today
If you made purchases on behalf of your job duties and your employer has not reimbursed you, our attorneys can help. Contact us today to speak with a representative and receive the compensation you deserve.