Remote Work in California Triggers Reimbursable Expenses Under California Law

Employees who work from home are likely entitled to a host of reimbursable expenses under California law. California Labor Code section 2802 requires employers to reimburse employees for “all necessary expenditures or losses” incurred by the employee in the discharge of their duties or under “obedience to the directions of the employer.” Therefore, employees who work from home and use their cell phones, laptops, office supplies, internet, and other personal items are entitled to reimbursement. When an item is also for personal use, then the reimbursement should be a reasonable percentage of the business use. It would be best practice for an employer to implement a written expense reimbursement policy and submission process.