Holiday Pay and Scheduling Compliance—What Employers Need to Know This Season

The holiday season brings more than just long hours and full order books—it also brings a wave of HR and payroll complexities that can catch employers off guard. From overtime pay to scheduling obligations, California employers must ensure they’re meeting every legal requirement to avoid costly missteps.

California law requires employers to pay non-exempt employees time-and-a-half for all hours worked over eight in a day or forty in a week—even on holidays. Unlike some states, California does not mandate holiday pay, but many employers choose to offer it as a benefit. If you do, make sure those policies are clearly stated and applied consistently.

Scheduling is another critical area. Many produce and food service operations ramp up during November and December, relying on seasonal or part-time workers. Employers should ensure meal and rest breaks remain compliant even during peak periods, and that overtime approvals and recordkeeping are handled accurately.

The takeaway: preparation prevents problems. Reviewing your holiday payroll, staffing, and policy documents now can protect both your team and your bottom line through the busy season ahead.

For more information on this topic or to learn how Produce Trust empowers companies working in the produce and food service industries, contact Richard Arias at: richard.arias@apdbla.com