Operational Documentation Reset: Build Your 2026 Defense File (Part 2)

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We are back with Part 2 of our Leave Management Monday from last week to help you finish your year-end cleanup with the “back half” of the file—the spots most likely to trigger disputes.

  • Intermittent leave tracking: Align timecards with case notes; correct any miscoded hours and remove attendance points tied to protected time.
  • Concurrency & pay rules: Where state PFML ran with FMLA, record whether any PTO “top-up” was mutually agreed and how it was applied.
  • Return-to-work plans: Store restrictions, trial schedules, check-ins, and release-to-full-duty documentation.
  • Manager acknowledgements: File proof of year-end policy refreshers (PWFA “no leave-first,” ADA vs. FMLA roles, PUMP Act).



Action: Apply this checklist to five active files per site and tag each one 2026-ready.

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