Can Employers Withhold Wages for Missing Clock-Ins?

Answered by Mawlana Ilyas Patel

Question

Is it permissible under Islamic law for an employer to withhold wages if an employee fails to clock in, even if they worked, as a way to enforce timekeeping procedures?

Answer

In the Name of Allah, the Most Merciful and Compassionate.

I pray you are in good faith and health. Thank you for your question.

It is unacceptable to withhold wages if an employee has completed his hours and demonstrates honesty regarding his work hours, even if he fails to clock in. The employer may deduct time if the employee arrives late or leaves early.

Pay Your Workers in a Timely Manner

‘Abdullah ibn ‘Umar (Allah be pleased with him) reported:

The Messenger of Allah (Allah bless him and give him peace) said,

“Pay the worker his wages before his sweat has dried. [Ibn Maja]

Best Earnings are With Honesty

Hani’ ibn Niyar (Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) was asked, “What are the best earnings?” The Prophet said,

“It is an honest sale or a man’s work with his hands.” [Ahmad]

I would like you to read the valuable answers and links below. Insha’Allah, you will receive guidance and direction.

Related: Provision and Work: A Reader – SeekersGuidance

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I pray this helps with your question.
Wassalam,
[Mawlana] Ilyas Patel
Checked and Approved by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani

Mawlana Ilyas Patel has received a traditional education in various countries. He started his schooling in the UK and completed his hifz of the Quran in India. After that, he joined an Islamic seminary in the UK, where he studied secular and Aalimiyya sciences. Later, he traveled to Karachi, Pakistan, and other Middle Eastern countries to further his education. Mawlana has served as an Imam in the Republic of Ireland for several years and taught the Quran and other Islamic sciences to both children and adults. He also worked as a teacher and librarian at a local Islamic seminary in the UK for 12 years. Presently, he lives in the UK with his wife and is interested in books and gardening.