I can't delete an employee - causes and solution 🧩🙅‍♂️

This article explains why you cannot delete an employee in haddock HR and which steps to follow to unblock deletion, if you really need it.

Why it cannot be deleted 🚫

haddock HR protects the integrity of the information: an employee cannot be deleted if any recorded data references them, whether it is active or inactive. The most common cases are:

• Planned shifts in the Plan associated with that employee.
• Clock-ins / time records linked to their user.

As long as this data exists, the system will block deletion to avoid historical inconsistencies.

💡 Important: an employee who has been deactivated does not consume subscriptions in haddock HR. If you do not need to remove them completely, deactivating them is the recommended option and does not cost you anything.

How to allow deletion ✅

1. Deactivate the employee (optional but recommended)

This keeps costs down and lets you review the references calmly.

2. Delete shifts

Open the Plan, filter by the employee, and delete all shifts (past and future) associated with them.

3. Delete clock-ins

Go to the Clock-ins / Time tracking module, filter by the employee, and delete the existing records.

4. Verify references

Make sure no data remains linked to them (check future periods, templates/rotations that include them, etc.).

5. Try deleting again

Go back to the employee's profile and use the Delete option.

Best practices 💡

• Keep the history: unless there is a specific need, deactivate the employee instead of deleting them to keep traceability (planning, clock-ins, approvals).
• Closing window: if you do monthly or legal closings, wait until after the closing before deleting data.
• Transparency: leave an internal note stating the reason for deletion, if applicable, before deleting.

Frequently asked questions ❓

Does an inactive employee block deletion too?

Yes. If they have shifts or clock-ins saved, they prevent deletion even if they are deactivated.

Is it enough to remove future shifts?

No. You must delete all existing shifts (past and future) and the clock-ins.

Does it cost me to keep them inactive?

No. A deactivated employee does not consume a license in haddock HR.

I deleted shifts and clock-ins, and I still cannot delete.

Check whether there are any recurring assignments left (rotations/templates that include them) or residual data. If it persists, contact support and include the employee ID.

Updated on: 23/04/2026