Admitted diverting drugs, lost job, can I still get my PTO?

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Hi, I recently admitted to my job that I was diverting for last 3-4 months and resigned and self reported to BON. I am close to retiring age so have no interest in PEER and surrendered my license. My question is does my job still have to pay me my accrued 340 hours of PTO time or can they keep it for loss due to theft(not that I would blame them).

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Specializes in Tele, ICU, Staff Development.

Three hundred forty hours is a lot of time and a sizeable paycheck you earned. I'd hate to see you lose it. 

Typically, accrued PTO is owed upon resignation, regardless of the circumstances surrounding your departure. However, employers can sometimes have policies that allow them to withhold final pay for certain violations, especially if there's a claim of theft or misconduct.

It ultimately depends on your company's policies and state laws regarding paid time off (PTO). If they withhold your pay, you deserve to know the reasons for withholding it.

Have you checked your employee handbook or spoken with HR about their policies? If they are not forthcoming or cooperative, consult an employment attorney to understand your rights and explore your options for recovering your accrued PTO. 

Best wishes,

Nurse Beth

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