does anyone know if it's a law to give employee handbooks to new hires?

Question

If so, could you send me a link?

Thanks

Answer 1

It's not a law that they have to, other than general contract law.

The employer cannot bind the employee to the contractual language contained in the handbook unless they can establish that they gave the person the handbook and put the employee on notice of the terms of their employment agreement. Both parties of a contractual agreement must know the terms of the agreement to have a "meeting of the minds" as to its content. Your continued employment AFTER receiving the terms tells the court that you accepted the terms. You could not have accepted the terms if they cannot prove you knew they existed. This means they will have you sign a form that says you (1) received the handbook, and (2) understand and accept the terms of employment. It will probably be buried with your W-2 and other application forms. Sneaky, but legit practice.

You should insist (nicely) on the employee handbook as a way to protect your employment rights. Keep in mind, there is little protection in this handbook since it was drafted by the employer with an eye towards expanding THEIR rights and minimizing yours.

Answer 2

As far as I know it is not required. But there should be posters from the federal and state governments posted where all employees can see. If you don't see the posters, you may need to ask someone, or just call the IRS &/or local labor board for information. Irs.gov is a good web site to start. I don't know what state info you need. Search your state for a government link.

Answer 3

It's not a law, but it may or may not be company POLICY, which is kind of a law WITHIN the company. I work for a company that's so small, our employee handbook is on one sheet of paper.

Answer 4

It depends on what state/city you are in and the individual job you have been hired for. There ARE certain disclosures that are required, but as for a handbook, it just depends.