Temp Agencies and Joint Employers: When Two Companies Owe You the Same Wages

Staffed through an agency but bossed by the client company? California often holds both responsible for your wages — meaning two pockets for collection.

What California Law Says

Labor Code section 2810.3 makes client employers share liability with labor contractors for wage payment and workers’ comp coverage for supplied workers. Joint employment doctrines add liability wherever both entities control the work.

How to Fight Back, Step by Step

1. Name both the agency and the client company on your claim — let them fight over shares.
2. Document who actually directed your work: schedules, supervision, equipment, discipline.
3. Send your demand to both entities simultaneously.
4. Expect finger-pointing at the conference; section 2810.3 exists precisely to defeat it.
5. Collect from whichever entity is solvent.

Common Questions

My agency disappeared but the warehouse I worked in is thriving. Can I pursue the warehouse?

Yes — that is the core function of 2810.3, and client employers cannot contract away wage liability for supplied workers.

Does this apply to my franchise location’s corporate brand?

Sometimes. Joint employer analysis is fact-heavy for franchisors, but heavy operational control can bring the brand into the case.