Do you have a leave buy-back policy in place for workers using sick/vacation leave while off work due to an L&I injury? If you do, here are four things to keep in mind:
- Make sure your leave buy-back policy and expectations are documented in your employee policy handbook and signed by each employee upon hire.
- Ensure that your leave buy-back policy clearly explains disciplinary action that could be taken if time-loss checks are not returned to the employer.
- Confirm that a copy of the policy is made available for employees to view at any time during employment.
- Verify that employees are reminded of your buy-back policy and requirements when a claim is filed to ensure expectations are clear.
Clear policies help employers and employees
Be aware that L&I will not require a worker to return their time-loss checks. Any possible enforcement with this issue will come from employer internal policies. Having a clear buy-back policy in place can help mitigate any potential issues. This helps the employer replenish the employee’s leave bank and gives the employee incentive to return to work as soon as they are able to safely do so.
Questions?
If you have any questions regarding your current buy-back policy, please reach out to your Claims Coordinator for assistance. We also have sample buy-back policies available to members for review or templating.