Why Use a Time Clock

There is no law in the US that requires you to use a time clock. Not one.

But there is a law that requires you to keep time records known as the Fair Labor Standards Act, or FLSA for short.

All that matters to the FLSA is keeping time records "complete and accurate".

Straight from the FLSA...

What About Timekeeping: Employers may use any timekeeping method they choose. For example, they may use a time clock, have a timekeeper keep track of employee's work hours, or tell their workers to write their own times on the records. Any timekeeping plan is acceptable as long as it is complete and accurate.

Simple enough right? Ask employees to submit paper timesheets, then call it a day.

But is that the best way? At least for you?

If not, here are few benefits of using a time clock.

• Keeps things fair, employees are treated equally
• Keeps time records accurate, time clocks do not lie
• Calculates overtime, PTO, and total hours automatically
• Optionally prevents buddy punching
• Easy to report over any date range
• Assists with running payroll
• Saves time and cuts expenses
• Nobody has to fill out a timesheet

As mentioned, you don't have to use a time clock.

But it might be better if you did.