My question involves employment and labor law for the state of: California
Hello again, forum!
I'm currently employed at a company owned and run by two brothers. I'm friends with one of them, and that's how I got the job. It's paid under the table, which was great for me in the beginning, but it's not as advantageous as one would assume. Originally, I didn't have a problem with it because I was only expected to help out during the weekends, but since the other helper left, I'm working full time. I worked 26 days in the month of July. Since I'm paid under the table though, I'm not entitled to a lot of protections -- credit towards SS, unemployment, workers comp, etc.
I stopped looking for other work when I became full time because I thought the hours would cover my expenses. That's all on me, but I was hired under the promise that I would get 33% more after training was completed. It is, and I mentioned it lightly, which was responded with an equally not-so-serious joke of no but that I'd be taken care of. It's seasonal, so I'm guessing my friend/boss wants to ride out the summer at a low rate then give me the higher rate with fewer hours. I don't want to continue working there unless I'm employed on the books and get the hourly rate I was promised. I can't afford to work there otherwise, in regards to the latter. If it doesn't go well for me, and I'm let go or fired, do I have any recourse for something like wrongful termination? As I see it, the only way I could be fired or let is for mentioning this situation (this assumes I don't quit first). I know it may seem silly, but can I file for unemployment?
Also, I don't know if it's because I'm under the table, but what about overtime? I have copies of my time sheets, which were printed and signed off on. I also have a personal check or two that matches my timesheet without overtime. If things go bad, should I just forget trying to collect the OT? In total, it's about six hours worth. Not that much, but fills a tank of gas.
I work at a company that provides uniforms. After three months, I still don't have a full uniform. I brought slacks to work, but two pairs got worn and torn while on the job. Should I be reimbursed for those, since the proper uniform was never provided?
I also bought shoes for the job and they're starting to get worn. That's just a standard deduction on my tax form, right?
I know internet boards are prone to sarcastic lectures. I'll spare everyone and admit my fault in this. I know it's something I got myself into, perhaps blinded by trust in a friend, but I'm asking for advice on my rights and how those rights might help me proceed?
Also, should I try to record any of this? I doubt I'll get anything on paper. I speak with my boss on Monday.

