In Pa, if I call out of work?

Question

if i give 12 hours notice and say it is a personal matter, do I have to tell what the matter is? now, I don't get any sick time ,personal time, or vacation time pay. the question is, is it legal for them to ask and do I have to tell.

Answer 1

Well here's the thing.. By the way I work with a law firm that specializes in employment claims... Although you should probably give them a reason for sake of their perception of your work ethic, they are not legally bound to ask and you are not legally bound to give reason, just notice. The 12hr thing is customary practice only as a courtesy. Legally it means nothing and technically you can just call out. The reason being is that in the state of Pennsylvania a company can fire an employee with or without notice at ANY time for ANY reason. People are only able to bring suit when they can prove there being fired was a case of discrimination based on their race, handicap, or sex. Those are the ONLY protected classes and the ONLY ways people in PA can argue for their job or pay back.
People who get sick pay or sick leave are bound to the rules the company set as to whether they have to explain the ailment. People who otherwise call out also need refer to their employers' set rules. The company governs these matters, it's out of the hands of the law. You should read your employee handbook, but I would suggest telling them what's wrong or making something up.

sorry about grammar, I fixed what I saw.... I hope this answers your question

Answer 2

I imagine they have the right to ask....they probably wouldn't unless it's a habit. There is the HIPPA law that protects your personal info, but I think that the boss has a right to know why you're not there, but they couldn't spread your business around the office. The best thing is to not call out unless you are sick, then you don't have to worry about it. But, if you insist, just tell them you aren't feeling well. They probably wouldn't ask anymore questions about that.