23 Sep When are we required to pay for training?
In general, time spent in job-related training is counted as time worked and must be paid. However, not every training program qualifies. If all four of the following criteria are met, you don’t need to pay for the training:
- Occurs outside employee’s normal work hours
- Is completely voluntary
- Not specifically job related (may be tangentially related to their job without being specific to daily performance or intended to train for new job duties)
- No work is performed during (i.e., reading or replying to emails)
For example, if a graphic designer wants to learn a new program that isn’t used in the workplace and enrolls in a local college class that meets evenings after work, it wouldn’t need to be paid. On the other hand, if that designer needs to learn the software because it will be used for future work projects, it would need to be paid.
Original content by HR Ministry Solutions. This information is provided with the understanding that Payroll Partners is not rendering legal, human resources, or other professional advice or service. Professional advice on specific issues should be sought from a lawyer, HR consultant or other professional.