Pay Transparency Laws in California: What You’re Entitled to Know
California is leading the way in pay transparency, giving employees and job seekers greater insight into what employers are paying—and holding companies accountable for fair compensation. Whether you’re applying for a job or already working, the law is on your side.
What Is Pay Transparency?
Pay transparency means employers are legally required to:
- Share salary ranges in job postings
- Provide pay scale information to current employees upon request
- Submit detailed pay data by race, gender, and job category to the state (for larger employers)
These laws are designed to narrow wage gaps, especially those based on gender and race, and to help workers negotiate more confidently and fairly.
Job Seekers: What You Can Expect
As of January 1, 2023, California employers with 15 or more employees must:
- Include the salary range or hourly rate in every job posting
- Make that range available even if a recruiter or third-party platform is used
You don’t need to guess what a job pays—or wait until the final interview to ask.
Current Employees: Know Your Worth
Already employed? You also have the right to ask your employer for:
- The pay scale for your current position
- Information about how compensation is determined
Your employer must provide this upon request. And they can’t retaliate against you for asking.
Why It Matters
Pay transparency helps you:
- Negotiate better offers
- Spot pay disparities
- Understand your company’s compensation structure
It also gives you more confidence when discussing promotions, raises, or internal transfers.
What to Do If an Employer Isn’t Complying
If you believe an employer is violating pay transparency laws:
- Save a copy of the job posting or communication
- File a complaint with the California Labor Commissioner’s Office
- Consider consulting a labor attorney, especially if you’ve faced pay discrimination
