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The Hidden Compliance Risks of Cheap Time Clocks: What Auditors Look For

The Hidden Compliance Risks of Cheap Time Clocks: What Auditors Look For

Think time clocks don’t play a big role in compliance? Think again. Auditors notice everything—right down to whether your punches look as reliable as an analog clock at 9:13, steady and predictable. Cheap, unauthorized devices often can’t maintain that kind of accuracy, leaving gaps in records that invite wage-theft claims and compliance headaches.

Authorized systems like the Acroprint ES900 or Amano EX9000 aren’t just fancy add-ons; they’re the backbone of clean audit trails. They ensure neutral rounding—something that unauthorized clocks often fail miserably at. Even small timekeeping mistakes can stack up like dominoes, turning into thousands in back wages.

Smart businesses are also moving away from outdated systems like the HN3000 uPunch. Why? Because reliable devices provide not just accurate hours but peace of mind when that auditor walks in. Auditors aren’t impressed by excuses; they’re looking for precise, traceable data. And yes, they’ll absolutely notice if you’re cutting corners.

Bottom line? A proper clock today could save you from paying out more than five years’ worth of high-quality systems tomorrow. Isn’t that worth thinking about before the next audit knocks on your door?


Sources & References

  • TCP Software: Incomplete or inaccurate time and payroll records are a top reason for failed compliance audits. View Source
  • Workforce.com: Improper rounding practices are a common trigger for wage-theft lawsuits during audits. View Source
  • Resourceful Finance Pro: Small timekeeping errors can lead to major payroll penalties. View Source
  • Employco Case Studies (2023): Average back wages per employee reached $1,393 in WHD investigations. View Source
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The Hidden Compliance Risks of Cheap Time Clocks – Learn why using unauthorized time clocks can fail audits and cost you thousands. See more reliable solutions in our why-compliance-audits-fail-when-you-use-unauthorized-time-clocks-at-TimeClockExperts-com at TimeClockExperts.com.

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About Anatoli Schwartz

Anatoli Schwartz is the founder and time-tracking strategist behind TimeClockExperts.com. Since 2001, he’s helped businesses replace outdated punch-card systems with audit-friendly timekeeping solutions designed for accuracy and compliance. With over two decades in aviation aftermarket support across EMEA, Anatoli brings a precision-driven mindset to workforce management—believing that every minute counted should be as reliable as an aircraft maintenance log. His mission is simple: to make time tracking smarter, cleaner, and stress-free for businesses of every size.

Disclaimer: This infographic is for informational purposes only. Statistics and facts are based on publicly available sources, and users should verify details before making compliance-related decisions.

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Comments

Anonymous said…
Didn’t realize rounding rules could cause wage-theft claims. Is that really a big deal for small businesses?” – Tom R.
Hi Tom,
Yes, it can be a big deal. Even small errors add up over time, and auditors look closely at rounding practices. A system with neutral, DOL-compliant rounding helps protect you. We can recommend affordable options that are audit-friendly if you’d like.
Anonymous said…
I’ll reach out to you, thanks

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