California final paycheck demand letter template
A California final-pay demand letter should state whether you were discharged or resigned, whether you gave at least 72 hours of notice, and the date the final wages became due.
A demand letter is a written payment request and record of the dispute. It does not guarantee payment or replace advice from a licensed attorney.
The rule your letter should reference
Fired or laid off
Final wages generally due immediately, at the time of termination
Quit with notice
Final wages generally due on the final day worked, where at least 72 hours of notice was given
Quit without notice
Final wages generally due within 72 hours of the resignation
Authority
California Labor Code §§ 201–203Wage claim agency
California Labor Commissioner's Office (DLSE)What gives the letter weight in California
A willful failure to pay final wages on time may support waiting-time penalties under Labor Code section 203, potentially continuing for up to 30 days. Eligibility depends on the facts.
Include accrued unused vacation when applicable because California generally treats vested vacation as earned wages payable at separation.
Use your facts and the California deadline to create your demand letter →
Annotated letter structure
1. Identify yourself and your employer
Use your full name and mailing address, then identify the employer and the person responsible for payroll or HR.
2. State how and when the job ended
Give your last day worked and say whether you were fired, laid off, or resigned; that fact determines the California deadline.
3. List the unpaid wages
Identify unpaid regular wages, overtime, commissions, bonuses, vacation, or expenses separately when they apply. If the amount is uncertain, demand all earned wages due.
4. Cite the applicable deadline
State the applicable timing rule and cite California Labor Code §§ 201–203 without claiming that every exception has been resolved.
5. Make a clear payment demand
Ask for the full amount due by a clear date and explain that you may contact the wage agency if the issue remains unresolved.
6. Preserve proof of delivery
Keep the PDF, sent email, postal receipt, tracking result, and any reply together with your wage records.
After you finish the letter
Save the signed letter as a PDF. Send it to a person responsible for payroll or HR, keep the sent email, and consider Certified Mail with Return Receipt for a separate delivery record.
If the response date passes, review the filing instructions from the California Labor Commissioner's Office (DLSE). Keep the letter, delivery records, pay stubs, time records, and messages about payment.
California demand letter FAQs
What should a California final paycheck demand letter include?
Include the parties, last day worked, how the job ended, wages believed due, the California deadline, a clear request for payment, and a response date.
When are final wages due after being fired in California?
They are generally due immediately, at the time of termination. Exceptions can apply, so confirm the rule with California Labor Commissioner's Office (DLSE).
Should I send the letter by certified mail?
Certified Mail can create a dated delivery record. Emailing the same PDF can provide an additional record, but neither method guarantees payment.
Where can I file a wage claim in California?
The relevant agency is California Labor Commissioner's Office (DLSE). Review its current eligibility and filing instructions before submitting a claim.
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Create my California demand letterRelated California resources
General information, not legal advice. Last Check GPT is not a law firm. Laws change and exceptions apply; verify current requirements with the official sources above.