Can employer retain certificate?

Question

I was wondering if a jewelry store provided 80% reimbursement for an employee who took a course to become a certified gemologist, would the employer be allowed to keep the certificate that is provided upon course completion if the employee leaves the company?

Answer 1

If they try to keep it, ask to see their written policy that says they are entitled to it because they paid for it. But whether they do or not, the certificate means nothing to the next employee. It is just a piece of paper. You could most likely contact the certification board and request a new certificate if needed.

Answer 2

No. The employee has a right to keep the certificate. if it was mailed to the store, request a copy from your manager (for your use in the future).

If it was mailed, or presented to you on the last day of class, I would recommend that you make a copy and give it to the manager so that it could be put into your personnel file.

Answer 3

I got training to get a CDL Class B license from a school bus company. The claimed the training was worth $750 (that's about right) and you had to stay one school year to get it for free. If you quit or were fired, they had a right to bill you for the training. They'd hold your last check at the very least. As far as I know, this was legal. I passed the road test about a week before school opened. I worked all year. On the last day of school, they told me I could come back for 16 hours a week to do summer school for seven weeks if I wanted. I asked if I had to. They said "no, after today, your obligation to work for us is over". On that note, I resigned. They were not happy. They paid me.

Answer 4

It depends on the terms of the employment and the norms of the labor law

Answer 5

I'd make a copy of it, and submit that to the company. If somebody had to see the original, I'd take it with me to their office and let them look it over all they want, but take it right back with me.

Answer 6

Ask the school where you took the course.