Timesheets

Timesheets don’t exactly scream “exciting,” but when it comes to keeping your business running smoothly and your payroll accurate, they’re low-key heroes. Whether you're tracking hours for payroll, compliance, or just making sure no one’s pulling 14-hour shifts on the sly, having a reliable timesheet system matters.

This guide breaks down what a timesheet is, why it matters, and how using a timesheet app or timesheet software can save you time, money, and plenty of “Wait, did I really work that shift?” confusion.

What is a timesheet?

A timesheet is a way to record the hours an employee works. Traditionally, that meant scribbles on a clipboard or clocking in with a punch card. These days? It’s all about digital tracking - with tools that do the heavy lifting for you.

Whether it’s for calculating pay, tracking billable hours, or managing time-off, timesheets help businesses stay on top of hours worked, reduce errors, and keep things fair and transparent.

Why timesheets matter more than you think

Here’s why a good timesheet system isn’t just “nice to have” - it’s essential:

Accurate payroll – No more guesswork when payday rolls around.

Legal compliance – Stay in line with working time regulations.

Team accountability – Clear records mean fewer disputes and better trust.

Cost control – See where hours are going and adjust resources as needed.

The power of timesheet software

Modern problems require modern solutions - and timesheet software is just that. Instead of manually adding up hours or chasing paper forms, you can use digital tools that automatically log time, handle approvals, and sync with payroll.

A great timesheet app lets employees clock in and out from their phones, view their hours, and submit time-off requests on the go. Managers? They get real-time oversight and can catch issues before they become problems.

With a timesheet app, you can:

• Track shifts, breaks, and overtime
• View hours by team, location, or project
• Export data for payroll or reporting
• Stay compliant with working time laws
• Reduce buddy-punching or missed punches

Who needs a timesheet app?

Short answer? Almost everyone.

From restaurants and retail stores to healthcare teams and field workers, if your employees are paid by the hour or work varying shifts, a timesheet app is your best friend. It takes the hassle out of tracking time and gives everyone more visibility and control.

Ditch the guesswork - get smarter with Planday

Manual timesheets are a recipe for mistakes, delays, and awkward conversations. With Planday’s timesheet software, everything’s tracked, synced, and stored in one place - easy to manage, even easier to trust.

• Employees clock in and out with the Planday timesheet app
• Managers approve hours with a tap
• Timesheets connect directly to payroll and reports

Ready to simplify your time tracking?

Try Planday’s timesheet software for free and see how much smoother your scheduling, payroll, and team management can be.