Our team of experts fields real-life, everyday questions from HR managers and gives practical answers that can be applied by any HR pro in the same situation. Today’s question: Do employees on FMLA leave qualify for perfect-attendance bonuses?
Question:
To cut absenteeism provide an extra incentive, we’re thinking about giving out small bonuses or other rewards for going a year without missing any days. Are we obligated to pay that perfect-attendance bonus to an employee who has taken FMLA leave but hasn’t missed days for any other reason?
Answer:
Generally, you must pay the attendance bonus. That’s according to Linda Hollinshead, an employment-law attorney with Wolf, Block, Schorr & Solis-Cohen.
For purposes of attendance, FMLA leave is treated as if the employee was there. Given that, the attendance bonus must be paid to someone on FMLA leave.
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