Are there records that should be kept even though not specifically required by law?

Employment records routinely maintained by employers, but not specifically listed in the federal requirements, include:

• work history

• performance evaluations

• disciplinary records

• personal commendations

• sick days

• vacation days

• benefit enrollments

• beneficiary designations

• withholding statements

• reports of reference checks

• preemployment investigations

• workers' compensation information

• medical history.

Documentation is an essential element of any human resources program. It plays an important role in performance appraisals, feedback between managers and employees, and in training. Documentation also helps managers and supervisors support personnel decisions and substantiate their actions.