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Can my employer deduct my pay for coming late to work?

Employers should find out why an employee is late and should not unfairly penalise the employee if there is a valid reason. On their part, employees should be responsible in coming to work on time and inform their employer as early as possible if they are unable to do so.

Your employer may deduct your salary for being absent from work. However, the amount of deduction cannot exceed the period of absence. The authorised salary deductions are listed in the Employment Act.

If you were 30 minutes late, only 30 minute’s salary can be deducted.

The company’s policy for deductions should be clearly communicated to all employees and any deductions made should be well documented.

If your employer has made excessive deductions from your salary, you can file a claim for mediation at TADM