Answer
Note: The Online Portal Timeclock and the Timeclock mobile app (Android and iOS) are two separate features. This FAQ pertains exclusively to the Online Portal Timeclock. For information regarding the Timeclock App, please refer to the following FAQ: How Do I Use the Lightning Payroll Timeclock App?
Please note, that in order for your employees to use Timeclock (via Online Portal), you will need to first ensure they are set up in the Online Portal with timeclock enabled. Please see our FAQ here on setting up Online Portal. You will then need to set up shifts, please see our FAQ here on setting up shifts in Lightning Payroll.
Setting Up Timeclock in the Online Portal
To enable the Timeclock feature for an employee within the Online Portal, navigate to Employees >> Details >> Online Portal.
By selecting "Allow Employee to Clock In and Out Through the Timeclock?" employees will be able to record their shifts' start and end times. This data is then imported into Lightning Payroll for accurate payroll processing.
Timeclock Extension: Geofence Validation
If you have the Timeclock Extension add-on, you can require an employee to clock in from an approved work location. In the online app, first open Company >> Shifts, edit the relevant shift and add one or more Geofences on the map. Then open Employees >> Details >> Online Portal, make sure Timeclock is enabled, and select Require portal geofence validation for timeclock clock in and clock out?.
When this is enabled, the employee must allow location access and be inside a geofence with a current, accurate location to clock in through the Online Portal. Add a geofence to every controlled shift: if no geofence is configured for a shift, its portal clock event is accepted as unverified. A clock-out whose location cannot be confirmed is also recorded as unverified so the employee's hours are not lost.
Viewing and Starting Shifts
To log into the Employee portal, navigate to the Lightning Payroll website and enter your credentials. Once logged in, you will be taken to your dashboard.
Click on the "Timeclock" tab from the side menu to access your shift details.
The Timeclock page displays your available shifts and provides the option to clock in. You can also view a list of previous shifts and use the date range selector to view shifts within different pay periods.
Clocking Into a Shift
When you're ready to start a shift, click the "Clock In" button next to the relevant shift. The page will update to show that the shift is in progress, indicating the start time and date. The "Clock Out" button will replace the clock in option.
Ending a Shift
Once your shift has concluded, click the "Clock Out" button. You will receive a prompt to confirm that you wish to end the shift. Confirming this will clock you out of the shift.
Reviewing Shift Details
After clocking out, the details of the new shift will be listed in the table at the bottom of the Timeclock page, ready for import into the Lightning Payroll system for processing.
