The global pandemic and subsequent lockdown orders changed a lot of things very quickly. Suddenly, workers found themselves logging in from home, and Zoom meetings took over. This change happened so rapidly that employees and employers are just now starting to find the right cadence within this situation. It is far less of an emergency and more routine; therefore, some employment questions are beginning to surface.
For example, can employees get reimbursed for work at home expenses incurred due to COVID-19?
Well, according to the California Labor Code, employers are required to reimburse employees for all “necessary” and “reasonable” expenses incurred concerning their job duties. Before work at home orders, many employers provided computers and phones for their employees to use for job-related tasks, but now that so many people are using their own cell phones and personal devices to connect, conscientious employers are wondering what compensations their workforce should receive.
For example, should an employee be compensated for their internet bill if they are required to get online to perform their job? There is no state ruling that applies explicitly to reimbursements as they relate to the COVID-19 pandemic, but existing labor codes do require reasonable payments for employees working at home. Smart employers will start evaluating their reimbursement policies now so that they aren’t vulnerable to lawsuits from employees in the future.
If you are incurring work-related expenses while working at home during the lockdown order, it is essential to keep a close eye on everything you spend as it relates to work. Having a paper trail can help you to make a case for reimbursement. If you are not getting the refunds you are entitled to from your employer, call our law firm in Santa Ana, California, for support. We are well versed in this area of labor law and believe that employees working at home should be treated fairly.
If your employer is dragging their feet on reimbursements, then it falls to you to stand up and fight for your rights. We have been working remotely for months now. The emergency measures excuse has expired. So call Golden Circle Law today for help and representation in Southern California. We can help you to secure the reimbursements you are entitled to.