California, United States — California was one of the first states to offer universal paid sick leave. In recent years, they have continued to push and expand its applications.
However, the state’s paid sick leave laws changed significantly in 2024, with a few new additions in 2025.
Here are five things you should know about California’s paid sick leave laws as the new year begins.
1. How much sick pay do you get
This is one of the major changes that occurred in 2024. Employers were previously required to provide three days of paid sick leave, but since 2024, this has been increased to five days or forty hours, whichever is greater. That language is important. It ensures that anyone working a 10-hour day has at least five days off.
You can earn these hours at the start of the year or as you work. Some employers offer one hour of sick pay for every 30 hours you work.
2. Cities can require higher minimums
However, it is important to remember that the state minimum is only 5 days or 40 hours. Some cities, such as San Francisco and Los Angeles, have more flexible minimum requirements.
Employers in San Francisco with ten or more employees may limit an employee’s sick time balance to 72 hours. However, if they have fewer than ten employees, the cap can be set at forty hours.
Paid sick leave in Los Angeles is limited to a minimum of 72 hours.
The laws vary, but you can find information for your specific situation by requesting a 2810.5 notice or looking for a poster at their workplace that may contain additional information.
3. You can use it for more than just being sick
Obviously, paid sick leave will help cover you when you are sick. It is in the name. However, this is not the only reason you can take it.
Paid sick leave can be used for doctor visits, as well as to care for a family member or parent.
Victims of crimes can now use sick pay to address the consequences of crimes, such as obtaining a restraining order or testifying in court, beginning in 2025.
Agricultural workers can also use it to avoid smoke, heat, and flooding caused by a local or state emergency situation. It includes situations in which their workplace is closed due to an emergency.
4. Sick leave is protected, retaliation is prohibited
Employers cannot retaliate or discriminate against employees who use paid sick leave.
If an employee is retaliated or discriminated against by their employer, they have the right to file a complaint with the Labor Commissioner.
5. Who qualifies?
Employees who work at least 30 days for the same employer within a year are eligible for paid sick leave. This includes part-time, per diem, in-home supportive services, and temporary workers.
While there may be exceptions, employers are generally prohibited from denying paid sick leave based on a doctor’s lack of certification. However, there is an exception if an employer has information that the employee is not requesting the leave for a legitimate reason.