§ 221 Wage Deduction Prohibition

Labor Code·California

AI SummaryVerified

This law says employers can't take back any part of the wages they've already paid to their workers.

Key Takeaways

•Once you're paid, your boss can't take any of that money back.
•This applies to all workers, no matter the job.
•Even if your boss says it was a mistake, they can't just take the money back.

Example

Your boss pays you $500 for your work this week.

Later, your boss can't ask for $100 back from that $500, even if they say they overpaid you.

AI-generated — May contain errors. Not legal advice. Always verify source.

Official Source

View on CA.gov

§ 221 Wage Deduction Prohibition

It shall be unlawful for any employer to collect or receive from an employee any part of wages theretofore paid by said employer to said employee. (Added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 357.)

Last verified: January 9, 2026

Key Terms

unlawful employer collect or receive wages employee

References

Official text at leginfo.legislature.ca.gov
California Legislature. Labor Code. Section 221.

Key Takeaways

Example

Key Terms

Related Statutes

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Key Takeaways

Example

Key Terms

Related Statutes

References