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Labor Code §1553: the California workers’ rights notice (due February 1)

California Labor Code §1553, added by SB 294 (the Workplace Know Your Rights Act), requires employers to give each employee a stand-alone written Know Your Rights notice every year.

What §1553 requires

  • Give each current employee the notice by February 1 every year.
  • Give it to each new employee at hire.
  • Use the method you normally use for employment information (paper, email or text).
  • Keep records of compliance for 3 years.

The template

The Labor Commissioner publishes the template. Get it free on our SB 294 notice page.

Related: emergency contacts (§1555)

SB 294 also lets employees name an emergency contact to be told if they are arrested or detained at work. See our emergency-contact form guide.

FAQ

When is the California workers’ rights notice due?

By February 1 every year for current employees, and at hire for new employees (Labor Code §1553).

Where do I get the notice?

The Labor Commissioner publishes a free template notice, updated each year, in multiple languages.

How long must I keep records?

Section 1553 requires employers to keep records of compliance for 3 years.

What is the penalty?

Under Labor Code §1558, up to $500 per employee for each violation of the notice requirement.

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Not legal advice. Records of what happened, not a guarantee of compliance. Sources: Labor Code §1553; §1558.