What is SB 478 and does it stop all hidden fees?

SB 478, the "Honest Pricing Law," enacted in July 2024, requires all mandatory fees (except government taxes and reasonable shipping) to be included in the advertised price for most goods and services. It doesn't stop all fees but eliminates surprises at checkout; restaurants are exempt if fees are clearly displayed on menus (per SB 1524 amendment).

Do I have to pay the "Service Charge" at restaurants?

If it's mandatory and clearly listed on the menu with its purpose, yes. However, it often includes gratuity—check the details. Additional tipping is still expected for servers unless specified otherwise.

Can I get my Rental Application Fee back?

Usually, no, as it covers the credit/background check. But if the landlord didn't perform the check or violates fair housing rules, demand a refund—you may need to file a complaint with local housing authorities.

Will the $100,000 H-1B fee affect my salary?

Yes, it could. The Trump administration's $100,000 annual fee on new H-1B petitions (effective September 21, 2025) increases employer costs, potentially leading to lower base salary offers or reduced benefits to offset it, especially for tech roles.

What is a "Resort Fee"?

A daily hotel charge ($30–$60) for "amenities" like Wi-Fi or pool access. Under SB 478, it must now be included in the online booking price, not added at check-in, to ensure transparency.

Does the H-1B cap 2025 impact these fees?

No, the H-1B cap 2025 (65,000 regular + 20,000 advanced degrees) limits visa numbers but doesn't affect state consumer fees, taxes, or cost-of-living expenses like hidden charges.

What is the Vehicle License Fee (VLF)?

It's a property tax on your vehicle (0.65% of its depreciated value) included in DMV registration fees, making renewals for new/high-value cars pricier—expect $250–$480 total registration in 2025 depending on vehicle and county.

Can I return bottles for the CRV cash?

Yes, redeem 5–10¢ per CRV container at certified centers (up to 50 by count per material type per visit). However, with closures like RePlanet in 2019 and ongoing access issues, many treat it as a lost deposit—use CalRecycle's locator for nearby spots.

Are utility connection fees common?

Yes, expect $20–$50 one-time fees to activate gas, electric, or water in a new apartment, plus new fixed monthly grid charges starting late 2025 (e.g., $24/month from SCE) under AB 205 for infrastructure.

Does a "specialty occupation visa 2025" exempt me from taxes?

No. Holders of a specialty occupation visa 2025 (H-1B) are full tax residents in California if living/working here, subject to all federal, state, and local taxes/fees like anyone else.

California’s Hidden Fees 2025: The "Junk Fee" Survival Guide for Newcomers & H-1B Workers

Alex Drill

Author

November 28, 2025

Moving to Cali? Discover hidden costs: SB 478, restaurant surcharges & CRV. Essential guide for H-1B visa 2025 holders facing Trump restrictions & fees.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about this topic.

Sources

References and sources used in this article.

California Office of the Attorney General - SB 478 Infohttps://oag.ca.gov

CDTFA - California City & County Sales & Use Tax Rateshttps://www.cdtfa.ca.gov

CalRecycle - CRV Informationhttps://calrecycle.ca.gov

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is SB 478 and does it stop all hidden fees?

Do I have to pay the "Service Charge" at restaurants?

Can I get my Rental Application Fee back?

Will the $100,000 H-1B fee affect my salary?

What is a "Resort Fee"?

Does the H-1B cap 2025 impact these fees?

What is the Vehicle License Fee (VLF)?

Can I return bottles for the CRV cash?

Are utility connection fees common?

Does a "specialty occupation visa 2025" exempt me from taxes?

Sources

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