Is It Fair to Pay for Extra Leaves After Resigning? Seeking Advice on Unexpected Charges

I served a company for 7 months and resigned during my notice period. I had 10 Paid Leaves and 5 Sick Leaves for the year. After 4 months of service, I took 10 leaves approved by my manager. Now, a month after my last working day, they are asking me to pay for the extra 5 days of leave I took beyond my allotted amount. They are considering 5 leaves as per pro-rata since I served only 7 months. This was not mentioned in their policy or offer letter, and I was not informed when I resigned or on my last day. They did not provide me with a relieving letter. If they had informed me when I took the leave, I would have adjusted my leaves. Please suggest.

In this situation, it's important to understand your rights and the legal aspects involved. Since the company did not communicate the policy regarding leave adjustments during the notice period, you may not be obligated to pay for the additional days taken. Here are some steps you can consider:

1. Review the company's leave policy: Check if there are any clauses related to leave adjustments during the notice period. If the policy does not mention deductions for extra leaves taken during this period, you may have a valid argument.

2. Seek clarification: Reach out to the HR department or a relevant authority within the company to understand why they are requesting payment for the extra leave days. Request a clear explanation and refer to the absence of this policy in the documents provided to you.

3. Negotiate an amicable solution: If the company insists on payment, try to negotiate a compromise. You can propose adjusting the amount against any pending dues or finding a middle ground that is acceptable to both parties.

4. Seek legal advice: If the issue escalates and you believe you are being unfairly treated, consider consulting with a legal professional specializing in labor laws. They can provide guidance on your rights and options in this situation.

Remember to maintain a professional and respectful demeanor throughout your interactions with the company to reach a mutually agreeable resolution.