How Long Should I Keep Employee Time Cards?

Time cards must be kept at least two years.

Minimum Requirements

The Equal Pay Act requires you to keep employee time records as well as schedules and pay rates for a minimum of two years.

Many Companies Keep Records Longer

Companies should keep employment records for seven years after the employee leaves the company, in case there is a legal dispute, according to the website Financial Web. However companies with good storage facilities may keep the information indefinitely to provide data for historical information.

Bottom Line

The minimum, as per the law, is that you must keep the time record for at least two years; however many companies keep the records for at least seven years.

References

• HR Pro Online: Facts About Records
• Fin Web: How Long to Keep Records
• IRS: Keeping Records