Split Shift Pay

A split shift is a work schedule that is interrupted by non-paid and non-working time periods established by the employer. The time period between shifts needs to be longer than a bona fide meal period and needs to be within the same workday. The break between shifts cannot be a meal or rest break and must be to the benefit of the employer. When an employee works a split shift, the employee must receive one hour's pay at the minimum wage rate, in addition to the wages paid for the day.¹

The IWC Wage Orders state that the split shift premium is paid at minimum wage. However, in an FAQ, the California Labor Commissioner states that the split shift premium owed is