Can You Have a Use It or Lose It Vacation Policy?

By Robert Palmer

Are you tired of employees hoarding their vacation time until the end of the year? A “use it or lose it” vacation policy might seem like a great solution, but is it legal? Let’s explore this topic in-depth.

What is a “Use It or Lose It” Vacation Policy?

A “use it or lose it” vacation policy is when an employer requires employees to use their vacation time by a certain deadline or forfeit that time off entirely. For example, if an employee has ten days of vacation time, they must use those ten days by the end of the year. If they only use eight days, they lose the remaining two.

Is a “Use It or Lose It” Vacation Policy Legal?

The legality of a “use it or lose it” vacation policy depends on state law. Some states permit this type of policy, while others prohibit it entirely. Even in states where it is legal, there may be restrictions on how this policy can be implemented.

States That Allow “Use It or Lose It” Vacation Policies

  • Alabama
  • Arizona
  • Arkansas
  • California
  • Colorado
  • District of Columbia
  • Georgia
  • Hawaii
  • Idaho
  • Kentucky
  • Louisiana
  • Maine (with limitations)
  • Michigan (with limitations)
  • Minnesota (with limitations)
  • Mississippi
  • Missouri (with limitations)
    Montana (with limitations)
  • Nevada
  • New Hampshire
  • New York (with limitations)
  • North Carolina
  • Oklahoma
    Oregon (with limitations)
    Pennsylvania (with limitations)
    Rhode Island
    Tennessee
    Texas (with limitations)
    Utah
    Vermont (with limitations)
    Virginia
  • Washington (with limitations)

States That Do Not Allow “Use It or Lose It” Vacation Policies

  • California*
  • Illinois*
  • Maine*
  • Nebraska*
  • Pennsylvania*

*Note: Some states that do not allow “use it or lose it” vacation policies may permit forfeiture of vacation time under certain circumstances, such as termination of employment. Make sure to check your state’s laws before implementing any vacation policy.

The Bottom Line

While a “use it or lose it” vacation policy may seem like a good strategy to encourage employees to take time off, it is important to consider the legality and potential consequences. Make sure to review your state’s laws and consult with legal counsel before implementing any vacation policy. And regardless of the policy in place, remember that encouraging employees to take time off can lead to happier, healthier, and more productive workers.