Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, but for many California workers, it can also mean a shift in the holiday itself. Nearly 30% of full-time employees report working weekends and holidays, and many continue working even when they officially have time off. For many, holiday time feels less like a break and more like another workday.
While California labor laws don’t always impose a legal requirement for holiday pay, some company policies offer additional compensation for working on holidays. Knowing what applies to your situation can boost employee satisfaction and ensure you receive the fair compensation you deserve.
Knowing your rights will help you better understand whether you’re entitled to extra compensation, such as pay at your regular rate or additional benefits. We’ll also cover when it’s time to seek advice from an employment attorney.
Let’s discuss the details so you can make informed decisions about your holiday work schedule.
Does California Require Holiday Pay for Thanksgiving?
California law does not require private employers to provide employee holiday pay for Thanksgiving or any other holiday. Unlike overtime pay, mandated by law, holiday pay is a benefit offered at the employer’s discretion.
Many employers, however, offer extra pay or time off during holidays to boost employee morale and loyalty. For example, some companies may pay at a regular rate or even offer double time as part of their holiday policy. You must check your company’s specific policies to understand what benefits you may be eligible for.
Who is Eligible for Thanksgiving Holiday Pay?
Eligibility for Thanksgiving pay often depends on your employment status and company policy. Full-time employees may be more likely to receive a holiday premium than part-time workers. Some companies offer premium pay through employee contracts or union agreements, which may specify extra pay or additional vacation days for working holidays.
It’s important to understand the difference between paid time off (PTO) and holiday pay; PTO allows employees to take time off as part of their regular salary, while holiday pay is specifically for working on a holiday. Time-off requests for Thanksgiving may be granted as PTO, but check your company’s policies to see if the holiday rate applies if you work.
California Labor Laws for Working on Thanksgiving
You may be eligible for overtime pay if you work on Thanksgiving and exceed the standard eight hours a day or 40 hours a week. Under California law, overtime is considered an employee benefit, allowing workers to receive additional compensation for extra hours worked.
To support fair treatment, employers must also ensure that rest breaks and meal periods are provided, even during holidays. Sometimes, employees may request reasonable accommodation if working on a holiday conflicts with personal or religious needs.
When to Contact an Employment Attorney
If you believe you’re not being treated fairly regarding Thanksgiving holiday pay or holiday shifts, here are some situations where an employment attorney might be able to help:
- Holiday pay is given to some employees but not to others without a clear, fair policy.
- You’re required to work on religious holidays without accommodations for personal beliefs.
- Your employer withholds pay for non-overtime hours worked during a holiday shift.
- Business owners refuse to honor agreements in your employment contract regarding holidays or unpaid time off.
- Employees’ time and rest breaks aren’t fairly distributed or respected during holiday shifts.
An employment attorney can clarify your rights under California labor law and help you understand what is reasonable to expect. If eligible employees are treated inconsistently or denied benefits, a legal consultation may provide the support you need.
Fair Pay During the Holiday
Knowing your eligibility for holiday pay is essential, especially during the Thanksgiving holiday when many workers may be required to work. California labor law protects employees, including overtime compensation and the right to fair treatment, even during a holiday schedule.
Employers must adhere to these laws and provide appropriate rest breaks, meal periods, and compensation for overtime hours worked. Understanding your rights regarding holiday pay, vacation time, or overtime compensation is crucial, so consider seeking guidance if needed.
If you feel your employer is not following the law, don’t hesitate to contact an employment attorney.Taking proactive steps can help ensure you’re treated fairly and your rights are protected. Call us today to discuss your rights.
