As a California employer, ensuring compliance with state and federal posting requirements is crucial. Displaying the correct workplace posters in visible areas, such as breakrooms, is not only a legal obligation but also a way to keep employees informed about their rights. Here's a 2025 checklist of the essential posters you must display, along with the potential penalties for noncompliance.

Required Posters

1. California Wage Orders

   • These outline the state's wage, hour, and working condition requirements. Employers must display the specific wage order applicable to their industry.

2. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) Poster

   • This federal poster informs employees of their rights under anti-discrimination laws.

3. Cal/OSHA Safety and Health Protection on the Job

   • Employers must display this poster to inform employees about workplace safety and health standards.

4. California Family Rights Act (CFRA) Notice

   • This notice provides information about employees' rights to take job-protected leave for family and medical reasons.

5. Pregnancy Disability Leave (PDL) Notice

   • Employers must inform employees about their rights to take leave for pregnancy-related disabilities.

6. Minimum Wage Poster

   • Displays the current minimum wage in California, which is subject to change annually.

7. Unemployment Insurance, Disability Insurance, and Paid Family Leave Notices

   • These posters inform employees about available state benefits.

8. Workers' Compensation Notice

   • Provides information on workers' compensation rights and procedures.

9. Harassment and Discrimination in Employment are Prohibited by Law

   • This poster outlines the prohibition of workplace harassment and discrimination.

Penalties for Noncompliance

Failing to display the required posters can result in significant penalties for employers. These may include:

• Fines and Penalties: Noncompliance can lead to fines from both state and federal agencies. The amount varies depending on the specific violation and the agency enforcing the law.
• Legal Consequences: Employers may face legal action from employees who claim they were not informed of their rights due to missing or incorrect postings.
• Increased Scrutiny: Noncompliance can trigger inspections and audits from regulatory agencies, leading to further penalties and required corrective actions.

Conclusion

California's poster requirements change regularly, and missing even one required notice can expose your business to fines, audits, and employee claims. If you are a California employer who wants to make sure your workplace is fully compliant, not just with posting requirements but across your employment practices, I can help.

I work with small and growing businesses throughout California to get their HR infrastructure in order, from required notices and handbooks to leave policies and beyond.

Schedule a consultation to find out where your business stands.

Schedule a Consultation →

This post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. For legal advice specific to your business, consult a qualified attorney.