Attendance Point Calculator

How an attendance point system works

A no-fault attendance point system assigns a set number of points to each attendance incident, such as an unplanned absence, a no call no show, a late arrival, or leaving early. Points add up, and once an employee reaches a defined total, a step of progressive discipline is triggered, from a verbal warning up to a termination review. The point of the system is consistency: the same incident earns the same points for everyone, so discipline is based on a clear, documented record rather than a manager's judgment in the moment.

Points usually roll off over a rolling window

Most policies count only incidents inside a rolling window, commonly the last twelve months, so older points drop off over time. This calculator adds up the active incidents you enter. The Excel version tracks each incident by date and rolls points off automatically once they age past your window, which is the accurate way to run the system across a team.

Protected leave is always excluded

This is the part that gets employers into trouble. Time off that is protected by the FMLA, an ADA accommodation, workers' compensation, or a state or local protected-leave law cannot be counted as points, even under a no-fault policy. Counting protected absences, or disciplining someone for them, can lead to interference or discrimination claims. Identify and exclude protected time first, document the unprotected incidents that points are based on, and get qualified help before acting on a high-point employee.

How many points should an absence be?

That is your policy choice. A common pattern is one point for an unplanned absence, a half point for a tardy or an early out, and two or more points for a no call no show, but you set the values to fit your business. The defaults here are a starting point, not a rule.

When does discipline get triggered?

At the point totals you set as thresholds. Many policies step up at a verbal warning, then a written warning, a final warning, and a termination review. The right numbers depend on your written policy and your tolerance, so set them to match what your handbook says.

Do attendance points expire?

Usually, yes. Points typically roll off after a rolling window, often twelve months from the date of each incident. Track the dates so points drop off correctly. The Excel version does this automatically.

Can I point an employee who is on FMLA or ADA leave?

No. Absences protected by the FMLA, an ADA accommodation, workers' compensation, or a state or local leave law must be excluded from points and from discipline. When you are not sure whether an absence is protected, treat it carefully and get qualified advice before counting it.

Is this legal advice?

No. This is a planning tool that helps you apply your own attendance policy consistently. It does not decide what is lawful, and attendance and leave rules vary by location and change over time. Confirm your policy with qualified HR or legal counsel.