HANDBOOK HELPER EPISODE 19Timekeeping Policy « Law Offices of Timothy Bowles

Fourth Dimension Attention

IT’S IN THE CARDS

Employers must maintain complete and accurate timekeeping records, whether electronic, handwritten, or punch clock.

Such records protect all concerned, for example enabling an employer to refute a nonexempt employee’s claims for unpaid overtime, off-the-clock hours worked, and missed, shortened or late meal breaks.

Thus, a properly drafted timekeeping policy is crucial.

Drafting Tips:

Instruct employees to record all time worked, no matter how small an amount;
Include a definition of “time worked,” with examples;
Require employees to precisely track all their meal breaks;
Prohibit all “off-the-clock” work, with examples;
Confirm all overtime, even if unauthorized, will be paid according to law;
Prohibit falsification of time records, with examples;
Periodically require employees to attest to their full and accurate recording and provision of meal and rest breaks;
Instruct employees to obtain their supervisor’s approval for any corrections or notes placed on a time card or clock; and
Caution employees that repeated failure to clock in or out or report all hours worked may subject them to disciplinary action.

Take-Away:
Implement and regularly review a comprehensive, clearly written handbook to include a timekeeping policy.

We publish this series to educate employers on best practices for a well-written handbook that assists applicants, employees, and management alike. To purchase our 2023 template handbook – which contains the above policy and much more – and accompanying forms or for more information, please contact Office Manager Aimee Rosales at 626.583.6600 or email her at officemgr@tbowleslaw.com.

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If you are an employer facing possible litigation, or have an employee issue on which you need immediate guidance, call us to set up a consultation, or submit your message.

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