Track Absences & Manage Time-Off Hassle-Free
Stay on top of employee absences with an intuitive tool that simplifies leave tracking, approvals, and ensures smooth workforce operations.
20 Best Absence Management software
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported a national absence rate of 3.2% in 2024, with higher rates observed in public-sector and service roles. If you’re responsible for managing a team of hourly employees, you already know how challenging it is to juggle schedules when someone calls out at the last minute. Shifting people around to cover gaps, ensuring everyone clocks in on time, and managing shift swaps can quickly become overwhelming. Add to that the ongoing tasks of improving employee retention and staying compliant with labour regulations, and it’s easy to see why absenteeism is a constant headache.
That’s where absence management software steps in as a lifesaver. It streamlines how employees notify their supervisors about missing work and gives managers instant visibility into who’s absent, when, and for what reason. This clarity allows teams to stay ahead of potential staffing issues, cutting down on last-minute scrambles. The result? You minimize the chaos of unplanned absences and give both HR teams and employees a more organized, stress-free way to manage attendance.
But here’s the catch — not every absence management tool is built the same. You need a solution that’s simple for everyone to use, connects seamlessly with how your team operates, and makes it easier for employees and managers to communicate effectively.
In this article, we’ll walk you through some of the best absence management software options available right now. These tools can help you minimize no-shows, improve how teams coordinate absences, and give you full visibility over your workforce’s attendance. We’ll highlight top platforms designed to help you stay organized, reduce disruptions, and manage employee attendance with ease and confidence.
Why Absence Management Software Guide is Worth Your Trust
Selecting the right absence management software isn’t just a checklist exercise. It’s about finding a platform that truly fits how your team operates day-to-day. Whether it’s handling sudden call-ins, managing PTO across multiple shifts, or cutting down on chronic no-shows, you need a solution that’s dependable, adaptable, and designed for real workforce demands. That’s exactly what we focused on.
While we haven’t hands-on tested every tool mentioned, we’ve done extensive research to bring you accurate insights. We analysed product manuals, scanned through verified user feedback, reviewed independent ratings, and studied real-life case studies especially from businesses dealing with hourly staff and shift rotations. Our research team is made up of HR professionals and content experts who know the pain points of attendance tracking, scheduling headaches, and compliance pressures.
In this guide, we’ve spotlighted absence management software that meets the following key criteria:
- Proven track record with companies managing large, scattered hourly workforces
- Known for intuitive interfaces that make adoption easy for both managers and employees
- Transparent about essential features like PTO tracking, absence alerts, and shift automation
- Optimized for mobile use and adaptable to the flow of everyday business operations
This isn’t a sponsored roundup or a generic marketing list. It’s a handpicked selection based on in-depth research, designed to help you cut through the noise. Our goal is to save you hours of comparison work and help you focus on reducing absenteeism in your organization.
1. Time Off Manager 365 – Best for retail and shift-based teams needing simple, automated absence tracking. Accessible via web and mobile, with features like instant leave requests, no-show alerts, and auto-scheduling. Pricing is user-based with HRIS and payroll integrations.
2. TeamSense – Ideal for deskless and hourly workers with an SMS-first interface. Supports real-time call-out tracking and multilingual communication. No app download needed. Usage-based pricing with integrations into HR and payroll systems.
3. BambooHR – Suited for SMBs looking for an all-in-one HR platform with PTO management, approvals, and HRIS tools. Offers tiered pricing plans and integrates with ATS, payroll, and benefits software.
4. Factorial – Great for growing teams needing leave management, document handling, and HR analytics. Accessible via web and mobile. Subscription is per user/month with payroll and HR tool integrations.
5.Calamari – Perfect for companies using Slack or Google Workspace. Features include leave requests, automated workflows, and Slack notifications. Modular pricing with integration into collaboration tools.
6. Timetastic – Best for small teams needing straightforward leave tracking. Offers shared calendars and automated allowance management. Simple flat monthly fee with calendar sync options.
7. LeaveBoard – Designed for small teams, offering auto-approvals, team calendars, and detailed reports. Free and premium versions available, integrates with Google Workspace.
8. Eddy – Built for small businesses focusing on leave tracking, hiring, and onboarding. Accessible via web with tiered pricing and integration with payroll and onboarding workflows.
9. actiPLANS – Ideal for teams that prefer a visual leave planner. Features automated leave balances and flexible scheduling views. Offers flat-rate or per-user pricing, integrates with actiTIME.
10. Jolt – Tailored for hospitality, retail, and food service industries, combining time tracking, scheduling, and digital checklists. Custom quote pricing with POS and payroll integrations.
11. Freshteam – A good fit for startups and SMBs needing basic time-off management, onboarding, and HRIS tools. Freemium model with tier upgrades, integrates with the Freshworks suite.
12. OfficeTimer – Best for organizations needing an all-in-one HR solution with leave tracking, time management, and project tracking. Offers both free and enterprise plans, integrates with payroll and billing systems.
13. Zenefits – Comprehensive HR software for SMEs, offering time-off management, benefits administration, and payroll. Pricing is per-employee with various HR integrations.
14. Kissflow HR Cloud – Focused on workflow automation for HR processes including leave management. Web access with per-user pricing, integrates with Google and Office 365.
15. Deputy – Ideal for companies needing employee scheduling and leave management. Mobile-friendly with AI-driven shift allocation, priced per user/month, integrates with payroll tools.
16. When I Work – Designed for shift-based teams, combining employee scheduling and absence tracking. Offers flexible per-user pricing and connects with payroll and POS systems.
17. Absence.io – Suitable for mid-sized businesses needing customizable leave policies, team calendars, and reports. Web and mobile access with flexible pricing and HR system integrations.
18. HR Cloud – Offers an employee self-service portal for leave requests and approvals, alongside onboarding and document management. Pricing is per employee, integrates with various HR systems.
19. Zoho People – A full HR suite with robust leave tracking, time management, and automation features. Part of the Zoho ecosystem, with per-user pricing.
20. Replicon – Best for enterprises needing advanced time-off tracking, compliance reports, and project time management. Offers scalable pricing with integrations to ERP, payroll, and HR platforms.
The best absence management software should simplify things—not add more complexity. It needs to be user-friendly for both frontline employees and supervisors, with a setup process that’s fast and painless. The goal is to save you time, not create more administrative work.
While we’ve made every effort to provide accurate and current details below, keep in mind that software features and pricing often evolve. Companies frequently update their offerings, which means some information may change over time. Always double-check with the vendor for the latest updates before making a final decision.
Time Off Manager 365 Attendance Tracking Software
Category: Absence & Attendance Management (Primary), Time off (Secondary)
Overview:
Time Off Manager 365 is an intuitive absence management solution designed for retail, shift-based, and hourly workforces. It simplifies how employees report time-off requests and tracks attendance in real-time, eliminating the need for manual tracking or paperwork. With an app-free, login-free system accessible via web and mobile, Time Off Manager 365 ensures that both managers and staff can handle absences quickly and efficiently. Built to enhance visibility, reduce last-minute no-shows, and maintain compliance, it empowers HR teams with accurate, up-to-the-minute attendance insights.
Key Features of Time Off Manager 365 Attendance Tracking
- Text-Based Absence Notifications: Employees can easily notify supervisors about absences or delays through a quick SMS—no need for apps, logins, or complicated portals.
- Instant Manager Alerts & Auto-Logged Records: Supervisors get real-time alerts whenever a team member calls off, while the system automatically logs all attendance data for audits and record-keeping.
- Live Attendance Dashboard: Offers HR teams a centralized dashboard displaying up-to-the-minute attendance status across different sites, shifts, and reasons—enabling quicker rescheduling and proactive absence management.
- Detailed Absenteeism Reports & Insights: Provides in-depth reporting to spot trends in attendance, eliminate manual errors, and maintain adherence to company policies and labor standards.
- Custom Rules & Escalation Triggers: Allows organizations to set specific thresholds and escalation paths, ensuring attendance policies are consistently monitored and enforced.
- Multilingual SMS Support: Supports multiple languages, including Spanish, to ensure easy and inclusive communication with diverse hourly and frontline staff through SMS.
Ideal Use Cases for Time Off Manager 365
- Streamlining absence reporting and automating callouts in industries like manufacturing, warehousing, logistics, and other shift-driven workplaces.
- Providing early visibility into attendance challenges to prevent staffing shortages and operational disruptions.
- Replacing traditional phone-based call-in systems, voicemail, and paper logs with a modern, automated solution that saves time and reduces errors.
- Empowering HR and management teams to make quicker, data-driven decisions using accurate, up-to-date attendance information.
Pricing
Time Off Manager 365 offers flexible, user-based subscription plans that scale effortlessly from small teams to large multi-location operations. Companies often see a strong return on investment through reduced absenteeism, faster response times from HR, and smoother shift coverage, which minimizes costly disruptions.
Integration Capabilities
Time Off Manager 365 integrates smoothly with leading HRIS, payroll, and workforce management systems. Attendance data can be easily exported and incorporated into your existing reporting and operational workflows for maximum efficiency.
Why It’s Unique
Unlike conventional attendance solutions that depend on apps, portals, or cumbersome phone systems, Time Off Manager 365 leverages the simplicity of SMS and web access to ensure quick adoption among frontline workers. Its straightforward design requires minimal training and offers rapid implementation. Beyond just tracking absences, Time Off Manager 365 turns attendance data into actionable insights, helping organizations reduce no-shows, maintain compliance, and enhance overall workforce productivity.
Team Sense Workforce Attendance & Absence Solution
Category: Primary – Attendance & Absence Management | Secondary – Workforce Automation
Overview:
Team Sense offers a SMS-driven attendance tracking system tailored specifically for hourly and deskless workers. By automating absence reporting through simple text messaging, it eliminates the need for apps, passwords, or downloads. This solution digitizes attendance callouts in real time, removing manual data entry and giving HR instant insight into workforce availability. Designed for quick deployment and regulatory compliance, TeamSense helps minimize unexpected no-shows, boosts operational transparency, and empowers HR teams to act swiftly with up-to-date attendance information.
Key Features of TeamSense Attendance Tracking
- Text Message Absence Reporting: Workers can notify supervisors of absences or lateness using simple SMS—no need to download apps, log into portals, or navigate complex systems.
- Instant Notifications & Automatic Record-Keeping: Managers are immediately informed when an employee calls out, while all attendance information is automatically logged for future audits and reference.
- Live Attendance Monitoring: The platform offers HR real-time insights into absences broken down by location, shift, and reason, allowing for quick staffing adjustments and trend analysis.
- Comprehensive Attendance Analytics: Generate detailed reports to uncover patterns of absenteeism, minimize manual errors, and maintain compliance with company policies and labour laws.
- Configurable Escalations & Policy Enforcement: Set up custom rules to trigger alerts or actions when attendance thresholds are exceeded, helping teams uphold attendance standards effectively.
- Support for Multiple Languages: Enables communication through SMS in several languages, including Spanish, to serve a diverse and multilingual frontline workforce.
Ideal Use Cases for TeamSense
- Streamlining absence notifications and automating callouts in industries like manufacturing, warehousing, logistics, and other shift-heavy workplaces.
- Providing early detection of attendance challenges to prevent expensive staffing shortages and operational disruptions.
- Phasing out old-fashioned call-in hotlines, voicemail boxes, and paper-based attendance tracking in favor of a modern, automated system.
- Equipping HR and operations teams with timely, precise attendance data to support quicker and more informed decision-making.
Pricing
TeamSense provides scalable, usage-based subscription plans that accommodate everything from single-site businesses to large, multi-location enterprises. Organizations often realize strong returns through cost savings, decreased absentee rates, quicker HR interventions, and smoother workforce management.
Integration Capabilities
TeamSense connects effortlessly with leading HRIS, payroll, and scheduling platforms. Attendance information can be easily exported and formatted for reports, ensuring seamless incorporation into your existing business processes and systems.
What Sets TeamSense Apart
Unlike conventional attendance solutions that depend on apps, online portals, or phone calls, TeamSense uses the most straightforward and widely accessible method—text messaging. Its ease of use means frontline employees can start using it immediately, with no training required. Beyond simply logging absences, TeamSense turns attendance data into meaningful insights that help companies lower absentee rates, maintain compliance with policies, and enhance overall workforce efficiency.
BambooHR
BambooHR is a comprehensive human resources platform that incorporates time-off management as a key component. Employees can easily submit vacation and sick leave requests via a user-friendly self-service portal, while managers have tools to review, approve, and monitor team absences through a centralized dashboard. This solution is popular among small to mid-sized companies seeking straightforward absence management integrated within a full HR suite.
Key Features:
- Flexible leave policy configuration with automated tracking
- Employee self-service for submitting and reviewing time-off requests
- Manager dashboard featuring approval workflows and real-time absence tracking
- Mobile application to facilitate time-off requests and approvals on the go
Ideal For:
Organizations seeking an absence management solution integrated within a full-featured HRIS platform.
Advantages:
Easy-to-navigate interface that simplifies time-off requests
Time-off management included across all subscription levels
Mobile app support for both employees and supervisors
Limitations:
Does not include native shift scheduling or workforce planning tools
Time tracking and payroll functionalities are offered as separate add-ons
Pricing
Plans typically begin at approximately $5 to $9 per employee each month, varying based on the chosen package and the size of your organization. Note that time tracking and payroll services are available at additional costs.
Factorial
Factorial is an all-in-one HR platform tailored for small and medium-sized businesses. It offers built-in leave and absence management tools that enable employees to submit requests for vacations, holidays, and sick days through an intuitive self-service portal. Managers can oversee absences using a centralized time-off calendar, simplifying approval workflows. Unlike some HR systems, Factorial includes absence tracking as a standard feature within its core HR package, without the need for extra add-ons.
Key Features:
- Create unlimited leave types and tailor policies to fit your company’s needs
- Self-service portal for employees to submit and monitor their time-off requests
- Shared team calendar that offers real-time visibility into absences across departments
- Mobile-friendly platform for requesting and approving leave from any device
- Exportable absence reports for streamlined data analysis and record-keeping
Best Suited For:
Small to mid-sized businesses looking for integrated leave management as part of a comprehensive HR software solution.
Pros:
Leave and absence tracking comes standard with the main HR platform
Supports unlimited custom leave categories and flexible policy configurations
Mobile accessibility allows employees and managers to handle time-off requests anywhere
Cons:
More advanced reporting tools and integrations are only available in premium plans
Limited compatibility with certain third-party software as mentioned by some users
Pricing
Factorial’s pricing typically ranges between $4.50 to $8 per user per month, depending on the selected plan and payment frequency. The platform also offers a free trial period along with a basic free tier for companies that want to test its core features before committing.
TimeClock Plus (TCP Software)
TimeClock Plus, now branded as TCP Software, is a comprehensive time and attendance management solution that also supports leave and absence tracking. Employees can clock in and out through various methods—including web portals, mobile apps, or physical time clocks using badges, PINs, or biometric authentication. The platform allows staff to submit time-off requests digitally, while managers can oversee and approve absences using an interactive calendar view. TimeClock Plus is widely adopted by mid-sized to large organizations, particularly in sectors like education, manufacturing, and other industries with complex workforce scheduling needs.
Key Features:
- Flexible Time & Attendance Capture: Employees can clock in using web browsers, mobile devices, or physical terminals equipped with badge scanners, PIN pads, biometric verification, and even thermal sensors.
- Integrated Leave & Accrual Tracking: Manage vacation, PTO, and sick leave balances seamlessly, with these features included in Professional+ subscription tiers.
- Advanced Scheduling Options: Optional modules enable detailed shift planning and workforce scheduling, with support for integrations like Humanity for more complex scheduling needs.
- Compliance & Oversight Tools: Includes built-in safeguards like overtime monitoring, detailed audit trails, and real-time alerts for exceptions or policy violations.
- Comprehensive Reporting & Payroll Sync: Offers robust reporting capabilities and integrates with leading HCM and ERP platforms for streamlined payroll processing and workforce analytics.
Best For:
Medium to large organizations that need a unified platform for tracking time, managing absences, and scheduling shifts especially those that rely on physical timekeeping devices for employee clock-ins.
Advantages:
Wide selection of clock-in hardware, including biometric scanners and temperature check devices
PTO tracking and leave management features are included in mid-level subscription packages
Robust compliance tools with detailed reporting, plus seamless integrations with payroll and HCM systems
Drawbacks:
No upfront pricing details—requires contacting sales for custom quotes, with no free trial available
Some users mention the platform has a learning curve due to its comprehensive feature set
Advanced mobile features like shift swapping may only be accessible through additional modules or upgrades
Pricing
TimeClock Plus follows a custom pricing model that varies depending on the number of employees and the specific modules you choose. Industry estimates suggest pricing typically ranges between $5 to $7 per user per month, with additional costs for physical clock hardware and premium features found in higher-tier plans.
Workforce.com
Workforce.com, previously known as Tanda, is a cloud-based workforce management solution built specifically for businesses with hourly, shift-based teams. The platform unifies employee scheduling, time and attendance tracking, leave management, and payroll compliance into a single, easy-to-use system accessible through web browsers, mobile devices, and kiosk applications.
Key Features:
- Live Time & Attendance Tracking: Employees can clock in and out using GPS-enabled mobile apps, receive clock-in reminders, and match attendance against scheduled shifts. Managers get instant alerts for absences or late punches.
- Comprehensive Leave Management: Staff can submit PTO, sick leave, and other absence requests through web or mobile. Managers view and approve these requests via a centralized calendar or directly within shift rotas.
- Smart Shift Scheduling: AI-driven labor forecasting assists in building optimal schedules while keeping track of compliance factors like overtime limits and mandatory rest periods.
- Labor Compliance & Oversight: Built-in tools to manage leave accruals, track overtime, maintain audit-ready records, and stay aligned with labor law requirements.
- Advanced Reporting & Payroll Connectivity: Generates detailed workforce reports and integrates seamlessly with leading payroll and HCM platforms including ADP, Gusto, Paychex, and Workday.
Best Suited For:
Medium to large organizations in industries like retail, hospitality, healthcare, and manufacturing that require a unified platform for absence management, shift scheduling, and attendance tracking.
Advantages:
Real-time attendance monitoring with GPS-enabled clock-ins and automated reminders
Seamless integration of leave management and absence tracking within a single platform
AI-driven scheduling and labor forecasting tools to optimize workforce costs
Robust compliance features including audit logs and enforcement of breaks and overtime
Drawbacks:
Pricing details are not openly listed and require a personalized quote
Initial setup and configuration can be complex, with some users noting a learning curve
User experiences with messaging and mobile app functionalities are somewhat inconsistent according to reviews
Pricing
Workforce.com offers a modular subscription model, generally billed per employee each month. According to various review sources, costs can range widely—from around $10 up to $100 per user monthly—based on the selected features and service tiers. There is no free version available, but potential customers can request a demo to explore the platform.
Paycom
Paycom is a comprehensive Human Capital Management (HCM) solution designed for midsize to large enterprises. The platform integrates a wide range of HR functions including leave and absence tracking, timekeeping, employee scheduling, payroll processing, and beyond, offering organizations a centralized system to manage their workforce efficiently.
Key Features:
- GONE® Automation: Streamlines PTO request approvals or denials instantly, applying custom rules set by your organization.
- Employee Self-Service: Allows staff to submit requests for PTO, sick leave, vacation, and other absence types through an easy-to-use portal.
- Manager Dashboard: Provides supervisors with mobile access via Manager on-the-Go® to review and manage time-off requests, timecards, schedules, and approvals.
- Comprehensive Time & Labor Management: Supports clock-ins via web, mobile app, kiosks, or biometric devices, with features like scheduling, geofencing, overtime tracking, and real-time notifications.
- Seamless Payroll Integration: Leave information is automatically synced with payroll and compliance modules, ensuring accurate payroll processing and audit-ready reporting.
Best Suited For:
Medium to large enterprises seeking an all-in-one platform that combines time-off management, attendance tracking, scheduling, and payroll processing—particularly those with demanding compliance requirements.
Advantages:
Automated leave approval workflows minimize delays and reduce mistakes
Managers can review and manage requests conveniently via mobile devices
Unified platform integrates time tracking, absence management, scheduling, and payroll data seamlessly
Drawbacks:
Pricing details are not publicly available and tend to be higher compared to standalone absence solutions
Setup and deployment may be challenging, especially for larger organizations
Best suited for bigger enterprises; might be more complex than necessary for smaller teams
Pricing
Paycom uses a custom pricing model, generally billed on a per-employee, per-month basis. Industry sources estimate costs to fall between $25 and $36 per employee monthly, depending on the features selected, company size, and contract terms. Additionally, there may be a one-time setup fee, often around 15–30% of the annual subscription cost.
NETtime Solutions
NETtime Solutions, previously known as Vitrix and now integrated with Paychex, provides the Stratus Time cloud-based time and attendance platform that includes built-in absence management features. Accessible via web, mobile devices, and supported physical time clocks, this solution is popular among small to mid-sized businesses and Professional Employer Organizations (PEOs). It emphasizes precise time tracking, leave accrual management, and compliance adherence.
Key Features:
- Cloud-based clock-in and clock-out options accessible via web, mobile apps, or PC kiosks, along with a self-service portal for employees to submit PTO requests.
- Customizable leave and accrual tracking, supporting various absence types such as vacation, sick leave, and PTO.
- Real-time monitoring of attendance combined with labor analytics to help ensure regulatory compliance.
- Seamless integration capabilities with payroll systems and compatibility with third-party PEO and HCM platforms.
Best Fit For:
Small to medium businesses and PEOs that require a combined time and attendance system with essential absence management and compliance capabilities.
Strengths:
Fully cloud-based with no need for local software installation, offering multiple flexible clock-in options
Integrated time-off request and leave accrual tracking tied directly to attendance records
Real-time labor insights and compliance tools that can adapt as the organization grows
Limitations:
Pricing details aren’t publicly listed and require contacting sales for a personalized quote
Core focus remains on time and attendance; more advanced leave analytics and HR system integrations may be limited
Some users note the user interface feels outdated, and initial setup might take additional effort
Pricing
NETtime Solutions uses a personalized pricing model, typically charging on a per-employee, per-month basis. This “dynamic billing” approach adjusts costs according to actual employee usage. No free trial options are currently offered.
Timetastic
Timetastic is a dedicated leave and absence management solution designed to simplify time-off coordination within teams. Featuring a shared calendar, easy access via mobile and desktop, customizable leave categories, and insightful reporting, it’s well-suited for small to mid-sized businesses seeking straightforward absence tracking.
Core Features:
- Unlimited user access with a shared calendar to easily see who’s on leave
- Flexible leave types (such as holidays, sick leave, parental leave) with built-in approval processes
- Mobile application for submitting requests, managing approvals, and receiving notifications
- Absence analytics including trend tracking, burnout warnings, and company-wide reports (available on Pro plans)
- Seamless calendar syncing with Google Calendar, Outlook, Slack, and Microsoft Teams
Ideal For:
Small and medium teams that need a simple, calendar-based approach to managing absences, without the complexity of a full HR system.
Advantages:
User-friendly and fast to implement, offering a clean alternative to complicated spreadsheets
Provides clear visibility of team leave to help manage coverage and prevent scheduling conflicts
Offers monthly billing with a complimentary 30-day trial and no binding contracts
Drawbacks:
Focused mainly on leave management—lacks time tracking, shift planning, and advanced HR features
Some users mention limited API capabilities and fewer integrations beyond core calendar apps
Occasional issues with calendar syncing delays and difficulty visualizing overlapping time off
Pricing
- Standard Plan: Around £1.20 (approximately $1.50) per user each month
- Pro Plan: Roughly £2 (about $2.50) per user per month, offering additional features like advanced analytics, burnout notifications, leave accruals, single sign-on (SSO), and enhanced reporting
- Both plans come with unlimited users, a 30-day free trial, and no requirement for long-term commitments
Calamari
Calamari is a cloud-hosted HR solution that provides flexible, modular options for leave management, attendance monitoring, and essential HR functions. It’s popular among small to medium businesses and organizations with multiple locations that want clear visibility into employee absences, along with optional time tracking capabilities.
Key Features:
- Leave management with unlimited customizable absence categories, adaptable approval processes, automatic leave balance updates, shared calendars, and support for multi-country policies.
- Optional attendance tracking that includes mobile check-ins, QR codes, iBeacon technology, Slack integration, timesheet management, and project time logging.
- Core HR functionalities encompassing employee records, secure document storage, role-based access controls, and compliance management.
- Seamless integrations with tools like Slack, Google Workspace, Microsoft Teams, Jira, Basecamp, Asana, plus comprehensive API availability for custom connections.
Best Suited For:
- Small to mid-sized businesses and organizations with multiple locations that need a flexible absence management solution, with the option to add attendance tracking and essential HR record management.
Advantages:
- Flexible, modular pricing so you only pay for features you use (Time Off starts at about $2.50 per user/month)
Easy to set up with a shared calendar for clear visibility on absences
Integrates smoothly with popular apps and offers mobile access with real-time notifications
Drawbacks:
Attendance tracking and HR management require purchasing additional modules, which can increase costs
Some users experience occasional sync delays and find the interface has a modest learning curve
More detailed reporting and advanced analytics are reserved for the higher-tier Pro plan
Pricing
- Time Off Module: Typically costs between $2 and $2.50 per user each month
- Attendance Module: Priced at approximately $3 per user per month
- Core HR Module: Available for around $2.50 per user monthly
- Pro Plan: Costs about €4 per user per month and includes enhanced reporting, workflow automation, and priority customer support
- Offers a free trial; requires a minimum of 10 users and is billed on an annual basis
Jolt
Jolt is a workforce and operations management solution tailored for industries with hourly, shift-driven staff such as retail, hospitality, and food service. It combines employee scheduling, time and attendance tracking, leave management, task oversight, and compliance features to help businesses streamline their everyday operations efficiently.
Key Features:
- Employee scheduling with intuitive drag-and-drop functionality, reusable shift templates, and easy shift swapping
- Time and attendance monitoring through mobile apps, kiosks, and biometric methods like QR codes and facial recognition, complete with reminders and compliance notifications
- Leave management allowing staff to request time off via app or web, with managers able to approve and track absences directly on the schedule
- Task management and compliance tools including digital checklists, audit trails, and logs for activities such as food safety and routine inspections
- Detailed reporting and labor analytics covering time-off summaries, labor cost tracking, and attendance patterns
- Integrations with popular payroll and POS systems like Gusto, ADP, QuickBooks, as well as Slack, Zapier, and an open API for custom workflows
Best Suited For:
- Small to mid-sized companies in the retail, hospitality, or food service sectors that require an integrated solution for scheduling, absence tracking, attendance, and everyday task management.
Strengths:
Comprehensive features covering employee scheduling, leave management, time tracking, and regulatory compliance
Robust tools specifically designed for compliance tasks, including food safety and inspection checklists
Valuable labour insights and analytics focused on attendance patterns, time off, and labour expenses
Limitations:
Lacks automated scheduling or advanced labor forecasting capabilities; scheduling is done manually
Minimal support for real-time GPS tracking or geofencing, limiting field staff monitoring
Some users experience occasional slowdowns and app stability issues
Pricing
Plans begin around $89.99 per month for the basic package, with costs varying depending on selected modules such as scheduling, time tracking, task management, and compliance features. A free tier is available, and personalized demos can be requested.
PurelyHR
PurelyHR is a flexible, modular HR information system tailored for small to mid-sized businesses. It features a specialized Time-Off module for managing leave, with additional optional modules such as Timeclock, Timesheets, Staff Management, Warnings, Talent Acquisition, and Performance Reviews—enabling organizations to expand capabilities as their needs evolve.
Key Features:
- Comprehensive leave management with unlimited absence categories, customizable policies, approval workflows, automated accrual tracking, shared calendars, and real-time balance visibility.
- Employees can submit time-off requests through web, mobile, or email, with manager approvals seamlessly integrated into the calendar system.
- Calendar syncing with major platforms like Outlook, Google Calendar, and Apple Calendar for transparent leave tracking.
- Access to over 25 built-in reports covering time-off patterns, accruals, and more, all exportable for advanced analysis.
- Optional add-ons include modules for Timeclock with IP restrictions, Timesheet project tracking, Staff directory management, disciplinary Warnings, Talent acquisition, and Performance management.
Best Suited For:
- Small and medium businesses looking for a scalable leave management solution that offers the option to expand with extra HR features as their needs evolve.
Advantages:
Offers extensive customization for leave categories and approval processes
Modular design lets you pay solely for the features you use
Accessible via web and mobile, with calendar syncs that enhance visibility
Drawbacks:
Time tracking and broader HR capabilities come as add-ons, separate from core leave management
Some users mention occasional interface issues and limited advanced third-party integrations
Pricing isn’t publicly available and requires contacting sales for details
Pricing
The Time-Off module begins at around $5 per user each month, with other features like Timeclock and Timesheets priced as separate add-ons.
A 21-day free trial is offered, and annual pricing is customized based on the selected modules.
Eddy HR
Eddy HR is a comprehensive cloud-based human resources platform designed for small and medium-sized businesses. It integrates essential HR functions like time tracking and absence management with payroll processing, employee onboarding, and recruitment tools.
Key Features:
- Time and attendance tracking through mobile and web clock-ins, with geotagging, timesheet management, PTO monitoring, and detailed absence reports.
- Absence management allowing staff to submit requests for PTO, sick days, and other leaves, with managers overseeing approvals and tracking balances using a shared calendar and dashboard.
- Flexible PTO policy support, accommodating multiple leave categories and customizable approval workflows tailored to company needs.
- An all-in-one HR suite that includes employee record management, secure document storage, hiring and onboarding tools, performance evaluations, and payroll processing.
Best Suited For:
Small and medium-sized businesses seeking an all-in-one HR platform that integrates absence tracking, timekeeping, payroll, hiring, and onboarding in a unified system.
Strengths:
Intuitive, user-friendly interface highly rated by users
Seamless integration of leave management with time tracking and payroll functions
Geotagged clock-ins and detailed attendance reports help support compliance efforts
Limitations:
Reporting and analytics features are less robust compared to dedicated HR analytics tools
PTO workflows have limited automation, with some users noting constraints
No open API available; integrations are mostly through built-in connectors
Pricing
- Starter Plan: $4 per user per month plus a $50 base fee, covering time tracking, PTO management, and basic reporting
- Growth Plan: $8 per user per month plus a $75 base fee, adding hiring, performance management, and more advanced workflows
- Premium Plan: Custom pricing with payroll and comprehensive HR capabilities
- Free trial offered
Excel or Google Sheets
- A lot of small businesses and startups rely on spreadsheets like Excel or Google Sheets to keep track of employee absences. Though not specifically designed for HR tasks, these tools provide flexible options to manually log PTO, sick leave, and vacation days—typically using date columns, formulas, and shared calendar views.
Core Features (Do-It-Yourself):
- Personalized leave tracking using formulas to calculate balances and accruals
- Shared calendars or spreadsheet rows to manage time-off requests and approvals
- Basic reporting tools including filters, pivot tables, and visual charts
- Cloud-based accessibility through Google Sheets or Excel via OneDrive
- Ability to create your own templates or find free downloadable options online
Best For:
- Tiny teams or early-stage startups looking for a cost-free, flexible way to track employee time off before moving to dedicated absence management software.
Advantages:
- Completely free or included with existing Microsoft or Google accounts
Highly customizable to fit your specific policies and preferred layout
Easy to share and collaborate with team members or supervisors via the cloud
Drawbacks:
Manual data input can lead to mistakes and is time-intensive
Lacks automated features like accrual calculations, reminders, and approval workflows
Not suitable for larger teams as spreadsheets quickly become difficult to manage
No built-in integration with payroll systems, scheduling tools, or compliance platforms
Cost:
Google Sheets is free to use, while Excel comes as part of a Microsoft 365 subscription. There are no extra fees for using these tools for absence tracking.
LeaveBoard
Leave Board is a cloud-first leave management solution designed for small and medium businesses. It simplifies the entire process of handling time-off requests, tracking leave balances, and automating leave policies, offering employees and managers a self-service experience through web, mobile, and Slack.
Key Features:
- Supports unlimited leave types with automatic tracking of accruals and balances
- Shared team calendar for real-time visibility into who’s on leave
- Employee self-service portal to request PTO and view leave balances anytime
- Customizable approval workflows with instant email and in-app alerts
- Leave reports and trend insights exportable in XLS format for further analysis
- Seamless integrations with Slack, Google Calendar, and Microsoft Outlook
Best For:
- Small and growing teams seeking an easy-to-use, low-cost alternative to spreadsheets for managing employee leave and team absences.
Advantages:
- Free plan available for teams with up to 9 users; Pro version priced affordably at $1.35 per user/month
Praised for its simplicity and cost-effectiveness in managing leave workflows
Smooth integrations with Slack and calendar apps for streamlined request handling and visibility
Drawbacks:
Interface is functional but may feel a bit outdated or less intuitive to some users
Export options limited to XLS format; PDF reporting and advanced analytics need manual adjustments
Some feedback mentions minor delays when using mobile or Slack-based features
Pricing (LeaveBoard):
- Free Plan: Available for teams with up to 9 users
- Pro Plan: Priced at $1.35 per user per month, unlocking full leave management features and detailed reporting
OfficeTimer
OfficeTimer is a cloud-based time tracking and attendance solution that comes with an integrated leave management system. Frequently adopted by small and medium-sized businesses, as well as service firms, it provides a no-cost option for managing employee attendance, projects, and leave in a single platform.
Key Features:
- Track employee attendance through web and mobile clock-ins, with geo-location tagging and real-time check-in/out alerts
- Comprehensive leave management with unlimited leave categories, policy customization (including accruals, lapse settings, and sandwich rules), and streamlined approval workflows
- Team calendars and dashboards that provide a clear view of leave balances, upcoming absences, and current accruals
- Automated notifications and multi-level approval routing sent via email and in-app alerts
- Exportable reports in Excel and PDF formats, offering insights into leave patterns, total time-off hours, and detailed analytics
Best For:
- Small and mid-sized businesses seeking a no-cost solution to manage both attendance and leave workflows in a single platform, moving away from manual spreadsheet tracking.
Strengths:
Completely free to use with no user limits
Robust leave configuration options including accruals, layered approvals, and holiday schedules
Accessible from both web and mobile with geo-location tagging and instant attendance alerts
Limitations:
User interface is dated, with occasional quirks reported in user feedback
Reporting features are basic—advanced insights or polished outputs often require manual adjustments
Heavy focus on time tracking may leave HR-specific features or integrations underdeveloped
Pricing:
Completely free plan offering full access to leave management and attendance tracking functionalities with no subscription fees or user limits.
actiPLANS
actiPLANS is a web-based platform designed for small to medium-sized teams to streamline absence tracking and work scheduling. It blends leave management with visual shift planning, offering a clear overview of team availability. For businesses needing time tracking, actiPLANS integrates seamlessly with its sister product, actiTIME.
Key Features:
- Supports unlimited custom leave types with automated balance tracking and accrual configurations
- Self-service portal for both employees and managers to handle time-off requests and approvals through web or mobile devices
- Visual timeline view that combines leave schedules, shift plans, project tasks, and company events in a centralized calendar
- Automated email and in-app alerts for request updates, approvals, and schedule changes
- Reporting dashboard offering insights into leave patterns, PTO balances, and workforce availability, with data exportable in CSV and PDF formats
- Optional actiTIME integration for enhanced time tracking and payroll alignment
Best Suited For:
Teams seeking an easy-to-use, visual absence tracking solution that also helps manage schedules, with optional integration for time tracking and payroll workflows.
Advantages:
Interactive visual planner that simplifies viewing team availability and leaves schedules
Automated leave balance tracking and streamlined approval workflows for managers
Accessible through web and mobile, with a dedicated Android app for on-the-go requests and approvals
Drawbacks:
Free version accommodates only up to 3 users—larger teams need to upgrade to a paid plan
Focused primarily on scheduling and leave—additional HR functionalities require separate tools
Lacks a standalone shift-scheduling module; full scheduling capability is achieved through ACTi TIME integration
Pricing Breakdown:
- Starter Plan: Free tier available for up to 3 users with core features
- Small Team Plan (4–40 users): Priced at $1.50 per user/month, billed annually
- Mid-Sized Team Plan (41–200 users): Costs drop to $1.20 per user/month with annual billing
- Enterprise Solutions (200+ users): Customized fixed-rate pricing for larger organizations, tailored to specific requirements
Essential Features to Seek in Absence Management Software
- Selecting the ideal absence management system can transform your attendance processes from chaotic to seamless. To maximize your investment and save valuable time, choose a platform your team will want to use. Here are the critical features to prioritize:
- Effortless Absence Reporting
Employees should easily notify managers about time off or absences through quick, user-friendly methods—whether via a mobile app, SMS, or desktop portal. Especially for frontline or hourly workers, minimal steps or just a simple text can encourage regular use.
- Automatic Approval Workflows
After submitting a request, it should instantly reach the right manager or HR person. Software with tiered approval paths and real-time notifications speeds up decisions and ensures everyone stays informed.
- Instant Attendance Monitoring
Managers benefit from live dashboards showing who’s absent, late, or requires coverage. This allows teams to adapt staffing promptly, preventing operational disruptions.
- Tailored Leave Policies
Organizations vary widely in leave rules. Look for systems that let you customize accruals, sick leave, vacation, and legal leaves so they reflect your company’s specific needs and compliance obligations.
- Seamless Integrations
Your absence tool should work well with payroll, HRIS, scheduling software, and other platforms to avoid duplicate data entry and errors, keeping workflows efficient and consistent.
- Mobile-Friendly & Multilingual Support
For teams working remotely or in the field, mobile access is vital. Additionally, offering multiple language options ensures inclusivity for diverse workforces.
- Automated Reminders and Alerts
Notifications for upcoming absences, approvals pending, or no-shows help keep communication smooth and reduce scheduling conflicts.
- Insightful Analytics & Reporting
Built-in data analysis helps identify attendance patterns like frequent tardiness or absenteeism, enabling proactive management before issues escalate.
- Secure Records and Audit Capabilities
A good system stores attendance data securely, maintaining logs with timestamps to support compliance with labor regulations and internal policies.
- Scalability & User-Friendly Onboarding
Choose software that grows with your business. Look for platforms that offer simple setup, helpful support, and training resources to get your team up to speed quickly.
- How to Find the Best Absence Management Software for Your Business
Finding the right absence management solution requires a clear understanding of your organization’s unique challenges in tracking and managing employee time off. A system that works well for a corporate office might not suit a warehouse or manufacturing floor, so consider your workforce’s specific needs carefully.
- If your workforce includes many remote, shift-based, or multilingual employees, prioritize solutions that offer easy accessibility. Tools that rely on apps or complex logins might discourage usage, whereas SMS or mobile-friendly options often enjoy higher participation.
- Your software should also be flexible enough to match your company’s leave policies. Look for platforms that allow you to define a variety of leave types—like sick days, vacation, family leave—and design approval processes that mirror your operational reality. This is especially important if you operate in regulated industries or across multiple jurisdictions.
- Integration capabilities matter, too. Since absence management impacts payroll, scheduling, and performance, your chosen platform should connect smoothly with your existing systems, eliminating manual updates and minimizing errors.
- Usability is critical—regardless of features, a tool that’s complicated or slow will be underutilized. Seek a clean, intuitive interface with minimal learning curves.
Whenever possible, test the software with a representative group from your team, including both administrators and frontline workers, to confirm it meets everyone’s needs.
- Finally, think about the future. Your absence management software should accommodate growth, whether through adding users, supporting multiple locations, or adapting to new legal requirements. Check pricing models, feature tiers, and vendor roadmaps to ensure the solution remains a good fit as your business evolves.
- Ultimately, the best absence management software will streamline your attendance tracking, integrate well into your daily operations, and empower you to make smarter staffing decisions. Evaluating options with your real-world context in mind will help set your organization up for ongoing success.
Conclusion: Why Time Off Manager 365 Is the Best Absence Management Software
Choosing the right absence management software can be a game-changer for your organization, simplifying the way you track, approve, and analyse employee time off. With so many options available, it’s important to pick a solution that’s easy to use, adaptable to your unique policies, integrates smoothly with your existing systems, and supports your team wherever they work.
Time Off Manager 365 stands out as an excellent choice for businesses of all sizes. It offers a user-friendly platform designed to streamline absence requests, automate approvals, and provide real-time visibility into team availability. Its flexible policy settings and seamless integration capabilities ensure compliance and efficiency, while mobile and multilingual support make it accessible for all employees.
By choosing Time Off Manager 365, you’re investing in a tool that not only simplifies absence tracking but also helps your organization maintain productivity, reduce administrative workload, and make smarter staffing decisions. It’s the smart, scalable solution for managing time off effortlessly today and growing with your business tomorrow.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is absence management software, and how does it benefit my business?
Absence management software automates tracking and approval of employee time off such as vacation, sick leave, and personal days. It helps reduce manual errors, improves scheduling accuracy, and provides real-time visibility into workforce availability—leading to better productivity and compliance.
Can absence management software integrate with payroll and scheduling systems?
Yes, most modern absence management tools offer integrations with payroll, HRIS, and scheduling platforms. This ensures seamless data flow, reduces duplicate entries, and helps maintain accurate records for compliance and payroll processing.
Is absence management software suitable for businesses with hourly or shift workers?
Absolutely. Many absence management solutions are designed with features like mobile access, SMS-based requests, and multilingual support to accommodate deskless, hourly, and shift-based employees, making it easy for all team members to report and manage time off.
How customizable are leave policies in absence management software?
Good absence management software allows you to customize leave types, accrual rules, approval workflows, and carryover policies. This flexibility ensures your software can align with your company’s specific rules, industry regulations, and cultural needs.
What should I consider when choosing absence management software for my business?
Consider ease of use, scalability, integration capabilities, mobile accessibility, and compliance features. Also, look for tools that provide automated alerts, real-time reporting, and strong customer support to help your team adopt the system quickly and effectively.
