Missed a lunch break or didn’t get your 10-minute rest? That’s more than unfair — it’s unlawful.
California labor law ensures that most non-exempt employees receive:
- One 30-minute unpaid meal break for every 5 hours worked
- One 10-minute paid rest break for every 4 hours worked
If your employer fails to provide a break, you’re entitled to one extra hour of pay per missed break, per day.
Break violations are widespread in industries like retail, restaurants, delivery, and healthcare. Sometimes employers discourage breaks, or the work environment is so fast-paced that employees can’t take them.
If your breaks have been denied or interrupted, document the incidents and speak with an employment lawyer. You may be owed significant compensation — especially if the violations occurred regularly.
