Basics of L.A. County's Minimum Wage (for workers)

Here’s what you need to know about the new minimum wage if you do work in unincorporated L.A. County. Find out what DCBA can do for you.

Basics of L.A. County’s Minimum Wage (for workers)

The minimum wage for workers in the unincorporated areas of Los Angeles County increases yearly starting July 1, 2016. All employers in the unincorporated areas of L.A. County must pay the increased minimum wage, with few exceptions.

When does the minimum wage increase?

The L.A. County minimum wage increases each year on July 1. Employers must pay their employees no less than the following hourly rates on the following effective dates.

Minimum Wage Increases in Los Angeles County

How do I know if I am entitled to the County’s minimum wage?

The appropriate minimum wage depends on where you work.

If you work at least two hours in one week in an unincorporated area of L.A. County, you are entitled to the County’s minimum wage for all hours worked in the unincorporated area. If you work outside of an unincorporated area of L.A. County, you will be paid either the California minimum wage or the minimum wage of the city where you worked.

Your employment status, where you live, or where your employer is headquartered does not determine the minimum wage that applies.

How do I know if I worked in an unincorporated area of the County?

To know if you worked in an unincorporated area of Los Angeles County, enter the address of where you worked on the County Registrar-Recorder’s website. (Follow our guide for step-by-step instructions.) Or you can call DCBA at (800) 593-8222.

What can I do to make sure I’m being paid the minimum wage?

Know which minimum wage applies to you. Always check your paystub to confirm you received the appropriate pay rate.

Check your workplace for up-to-date notices stating the current minimum wage rate. If your employer needs these notices, call DCBA.

File A Complaint

If your employer does not pay you the mandated minimum wage, file a complaint online. Our services are free.

You also can reach us by:

We do not ask or report your immigration status.

If I complain, will I lose my job?

It is against the law for any employer to retaliate against a worker who:

  • Requests to be paid the mandated minimum wage.
  • Reports an alleged wage violation.
  • Informs other workers about their rights or an alleged violation.

Retaliation includes, but is not limited to:

  • Firing you for filing a wage complaint.
  • Decreasing your shift hours.
  • Threatening to contact immigration services.

How DCBA can help you

DCBA can help you understand your rights under the County’s new minimum wage law, investigate alleged violations of the law by your employer, and help you get the wages that are owed to you.

County of Los Angeles Department of Consumer and Business Affairs. Last updated: July 1, 2016

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