Preventing Misuse of Leave

Written By Hennrietta Smith

Most employees are dedicated and honest and do not abuse leave privileges. Occasionally, however, there is one who is the exception and who tends to drag down the morale of the rest. Tips for handling those exceptions include the following:

  • Have clear, proactive policies and procedures

  • Require advance notice when possible (emergencies are an obvious exception)

  • Require the submission of documentation when possible (Illinois, Maine and Nevada, have some exceptions)

  • Ensure that multi-employment is not actually taking place, at least on company time

  • Monitor absenteeism around holidays

  • Consider checking in periodically with employees who are on extended medical or family leave

  • Review employee leave records for patterns of abuse

  • Ensure that supervisors are observing correct leave protocols themselves, and that they know what to watch for with employee leave requests

  • Take action quickly and fairly in the event of misuse of leave.

Hennrietta Smith
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