What if their employer owes them a bonus or commission?

What this usually means

Earned commissions and bonuses are wages in California and belong to the estate. Get documentation of what was owed — ask HR for a final compensation statement. If the employer disputes the amount, a wage claim can be filed with the California Labor Commissioner.

What to do next

• Start the PathAfter checklist for situation-aware first steps.
• Find California county help for coroner contacts, vital records, cost tools, and paperwork.
• Open the First 72 Hours Call Log before making calls.
• Open the Documents to Find Checklist when you are ready for paperwork.

Related questions

• What employer benefits might I be entitled to after a spouse dies?
• How do I claim employer-provided life insurance?
• What if the employer life insurance beneficiary is wrong or outdated?
• What about their accrued vacation or PTO?
• What if they were self-employed?