Federal, state, and local laws may require employers to provide leave, including sick leave. Many companies will offer paid leave. Making sure you’re doing what’s required (and expected) can help you avoid some costly mistakes.
Watch: Employee Leave
Did you know? While there is no national law entitling workers to paid leave, many laws exist on the city, local, and state level that give employees access to paid leave. Check what’s required in your area.
WHAT TO AVOID
Refusing employee requests for medical, family or sick leave
Paid sick leave accrual not being tracked accurately
Terminating an employee for attending jury duty or other activities that are subject to protection as well as a way for employees to check their leave balance that meets applicable state rules
No transparency in the policies regarding leave
Refusing to cover an employee’s health insurance during a leave of absence if required by law or employer policy
POTENTIAL COSTS OF GETTING IT WRONG
Elaborate or manual leave request and approval systems that drain employees’ and managers’ time
Staffing confusion and shortages as multiple people take leave at the same time
Reduced employee morale if they feel they’re missing out on leave they should be entitled to
Employees take more leave than they’re entitled to, due to poor tracking
What Good Looks Like
A simple way to track and manage employee leave ― both paid and unpaid
Staying up to date with current and changing leave legislation
A clear leave policy documented in an employee handbook and communicated consistent with notice requirements, as well as a way for employees to check their leave balance
Data stored in a secure, but easily accessible system
This guide provides general information and should not be construed as legal, HR, financial, insurance, tax or accounting advice. You should consult with your own legal counsel, human resource, accounting or other professional advisor for circumstances pertaining to your business.