We have received several questions regarding paying employees during inclement weather, such as what we are experiencing right now.  We thought we would share the most common Q&A that we have received, to all of our HR program subscribers.

What are the pay requirements during inclement weather?

(A)    That depends on a few factors.  One, does your company have an inclement weather policy in place?  If so, that policy should be followed.  Two, are your employees exempt or non-exempt.  There are different requirements for both.  For your exempt staff, if they work any portion of the day, either in the office or from home, you are required to pay them their normal salary.  For your non-exempt staff, you have a choice.  You can pay them or not....but whatever you decide, will begin to set precedent for future occurrences.

According to numerous surveys, the best/common practice for non-exempt employees is as follows:

1. If the company closes and sends employees home or notifies them to not come in, pay is granted to both exempt and non-exempt employees.
2. If the company is open, employees that are not able to report for work or choose to not come in, are not paid.
3. In the case where employees will not receive their regular wage, they are typically able to use available PTO or vacation.

If you would like to talk with us about this or any other topic, we are here and available to answer your questions!

Stay warm and be safe!