What information must be on a timecard?

Under California law, timecards must show:

  • The total number of hours worked each day;
  • The time each employee came in for the day and the time they left; and
  • The times an employee began and ended each meal period, unless all employees take a meal period at the same time, such as when a manufacturing line is shut down for lunch.

Timecards do not need to show rest periods, nor is there any legal requirement that employees sign their timecards. But it is recommended that employees check the accuracy of hours, including meal and rest breaks, that were taken.

If an employee reports hours on a timecard that they did not work, the employer may make corrections to the timecard and pay only for hours actually worked.

If challenged, the burden of proving what hours were in fact worked lies with the employer.

Read more about Timekeeping and Recording Guidelines in the HR Library.