Law by state · CA
Tipping and service-charge law in California
California prohibits an employer or agent from taking or receiving any gratuity left for an employee, and treats a charge represented to the customer as a tip as a tip. Starting January 1, 2026, the Labor Commissioner may cite employers for withheld gratuities.
Source: Cal. Labor Code §351; SB 648 (2025) · Verified 2026-09
California prohibits deducting card processing fees from tips; the full tip must be paid by the next regular payday.
Source: Cal. Labor Code §351 · Verified 2026-09
California's hidden-fee law (effective July 1, 2024) bans advertising a price that excludes mandatory fees. Restaurant and bar fees are exempt only if clearly and conspicuously displayed with their purpose wherever prices are shown.
Source: SB 478 and SB 1524; Cal. Civ. Code §1770(a)(29) · Verified 2026-09
Where to file
As a customer
On the record in California
Locations in California with a published claim, ordered by the number of independent reports behind it.
TipRecord does not determine whether this business complies with any law. These lines quote what the cited statute or agency says, as of the verified date, and are not legal advice.