FAQ - Time Tracking Geolocation

The article addresses frequently asked questions regarding the geolocation feature in BambooHR Time & Attendance. It aims to clarify functionalities, optimize use, and assist with troubleshooting. Key topics include whether locations are captured during timesheet edits, if location data is limited to the employee clocking in or out, and the inability to edit locations. The article explains that geolocation is only available on the mobile app, not on desktop, and emphasizes that location accuracy can vary based on several factors. It also outlines that an employee's location is recorded during various actions in the app, but not during clock-in/out via a web browser. Additionally, it notes that geofencing is not enforced, and while geolocation information can be viewed in reports, it is not included in data exports.

  • Apr 27, 2026
  • Knowledge

Title
FAQ - Time Tracking Geolocation
Article Text
BambooHR Time & Attendance (Formerly Time Tracking) is only included as an add-on.
Frequently asked questions about geolocation
Is location captured with timesheet edits?

The system captures a location only when the employee clocks in or clocks out; it does not collect location when editing a time entry

Is the clock-in/clock-out location captured only for the employee or anyone who can clock in and out on a timesheet?

The system only captures location for the employee. If a manager or someone else clocks in or out for another employee, the system will not collect or require geolocation.

Can a location be edited?

Neither an admin nor an employee can edit or change locations.

If an employee attempts to clock in or out via a web browser on a mobile device, will they be redirected to the mobile app?

Only the mobile app requires a location. Therefore, if the employee clocks in or clocks out using a web browser on their mobile device, the system will not redirect them to the mobile app, and it will not collect location information.

If the employee chooses "Don’t Allow" for location services, will they be shown the same modal again each time?

If the employee initially denies location services and an employee attempts to clock in or clock out, a modal will display, stating "Location services must be enabled" for a clock-in/clock-out.

What if an admin or the Account Owner changes the Time & Attendance mobile settings while an employee is clocked in?

If the settings change while an employee is clocked in, the clock-out information reflects that change. So, if the system required their location when the employee clocked in, it collected the location information. However, if the feature was turned off before they clocked out, the system will not require location information for clock-out.

How exact is the location?

The accuracy of a location can vary due to several factors, including the device used, GPS signal strength, Wi-Fi and cellular service availability, and any physical obstructions. We account for these variations by displaying a "margin of error" as a circle around the clock-in or clock-out location, indicating the potential range of the actual position.

What are some tips for improving the accuracy of my location?
  1. Turn on WiFi.
  2. Restart your device.
  3. Ensure you are in a good area with limited obstructions that could block a cellular or GPS signal.
What if a location does not have an address? Will it pick up the nearest address or not show an address?

The system shows an address if location accuracy is high. If accuracy is low, only the city and state will likely show.

If my employee starts a break from the mobile app, does it record their location?

Yes. If an employee uses the mobile app, it records their location each time they take a time-clock action, such as clocking in, starting a break, or clocking back in.

Does geolocation always look for an address?

With geolocation, the system will identify an address if the signal is accurate. However, if the accuracy is weak, it cannot precisely identify the exact location.

Is location only captured with a clock-in and clock-out or also while using the app?

To help with accuracy, if your company requires a clock-in/clock-out location, location information is gathered whenever the app is open to. However, the location information is only saved when a clock-in/clock-out happens.

Does geolocation work when employees clock in/clock out from their computer?

Geolocation is only available on the mobile app, not the desktop version of Time & Attendance. You can enable or disable this all-or-nothing functionality for employees in your Time & Attendance settings.

Do you track IP addresses of the devices people clock in/clock out from?

Yes. The Audit Trail report tracks the IP addresses when employees clock in or out.

Do you offer geofencing?

No. We do not enforce limits on where an employee can clock in or out.

Can I export geolocation information?

You can view geolocation inforation using the Timesheet Entries report, but the geolocation information does not show in a data export.

**Geofencing is not currently available on the mobile app.

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