California Payroll Tax & Labor Law Quick Reference (2026)
California payroll taxes at a glance
Running payroll in California means handling federal withholding, state requirements, Social Security, Medicare, and state unemployment insurance. Rates and wage bases update yearly, so build from current figures each January.
Minimum wage and overtime
Apply the correct California minimum wage and overtime rules, remembering that state rules can be stricter than the federal FLSA. When federal and state rules differ, follow the one that benefits the employee.
Withholding and filings
Register with the appropriate California agencies, withhold correctly, and file on the required schedule. Late or incorrect filings trigger penalties that dwarf the cost of getting it right.
Final paychecks and recordkeeping
California sets rules for when final pay is due and how long you must keep payroll records. Missing a final-paycheck deadline is an easy, avoidable violation.
Make it automatic
MyCo applies California and federal rules to every pay run and produces payroll-ready data; US payroll tax filing is configured during onboarding through your payroll provider. For a quick estimate, try the California paycheck calculator or read the California labor-law reference.
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What payroll taxes apply in California?
Federal income tax, Social Security, Medicare, applicable California state taxes, and state unemployment insurance.
Does California have stricter overtime than federal law?
It can. Always apply whichever overtime rule is more generous to the employee.
Can MyCo file my state payroll taxes?
Yes. MyCo calculates withholding and produces payroll-ready data automatically; US payroll tax filing is configured during onboarding through your payroll provider.