Returning equipment after being fired remote work Californie
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Returning equipment after being fired remote work Californie
I need to know about keeping my work laptop and screen working from a remote position. I worked in a company for several months. This job was remote; I currently live in another city in the state on a W2. I went for training there, and on my 1st day, I received freebies, as well as a used laptop. I was very happy. Since it was a remote job, I asked if I could get a screen since It was hard to read on a laptop all day long, so they sent me one by mail, with other freebies. I also bought my own printer/scanner, keyboard now that is worthless for me It’s worth mentioning that I did not sign anything when I received the laptop in person, or the screen by mail. Fast forwarding a few months later, upon my firing I was not performing well apparently over the phone the HR asked me to return my equipement. I truly thought it was mine to keep, I said okay.. but now I having seconds thoughts. I am not a thief, and I am not this kind of person, but I need this laptop to look for a new job. I am not sure what it says in the contract about equipment if any at all, because it’s on
Asked on October 12, 2016 under Employment Labor Law, California
Answers:
SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 7 years ago | Contributor
No, equipment used by remote workers is NOT theirs to keep, no matter how much they used it or how convenient or even important it is to them, unless and only if the company says they can keep it. The equipment belongs to the company; it was loaned or provided to them for a specific purpose--so they could do their work for the employer. When employment is over--or earlier, if while still employed, the company wants the employer to return its equipment and buy his/her own--it must be given back. Again, it belongs to the company if they paid for it, even if it was shipped directly to the employee; they have the right to their property back.
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