The NFC-based clock in/out capability makes time tracking faster, more accurate, and easier for teams that start their shifts at a physical location. NFC (Near Field Communication) is a short-range wireless technology that allows devices to interact when held close together, similar to how contactless payments work. This enables employees to clock in with a simple tap, confirming on-site presence, reducing routine friction, and minimizing errors or misuse. It’s a straightforward, reliable way to ensure accurate time tracking for both employees and managers. Let's dive in!
Follow this link to purchase the NFC Tag through Connecteam!
*If you already have your own NFC tag, make sure to check out this article for instructions on how to configure it!
How to Add a New NFC in Connecteam
Once you receive an NFC tag from Connecteam, follow these steps in order to implement it in the platform. Please note that only account owners can add a new NFC. To add a new NFC to your Time Clock:
Access the Time Clock feature from the left sidebar and enter the relevant Time Clock.
Head over to the Time Tracking tab.
Locate the NFC tags option under the clock-in devices.
Click on the gear icon found in the NFC option, which will open a separate modal allowing you to set up your NFC.
In the modal that opens, select Add NFC.
Insert the NFC ID which can be found on the back of the NFC tag you received from Connecteam. Please note, that the ID you type in needs to be identical to the one on your NFC tag, and is case sensitive.
Add a display name and location which will be associated with your NFC and click Save.
That’s it! Employees assigned to this time clock can now clock in using NFC - just follow the steps below based on your device:
On Android: Simply hold the phone flat against the NFC tag - it will automatically open Connecteam and clock you in.
On iPhone: Unlock your phone, open the Connecteam app, tap the NFC button at the top, then hold the top of your iPhone near the tag.
How to Assign Resources (Jobs) to the NFC
If your company uses resources (such as jobs, clients, or projects) to track time and you’d like to assign one to the NFC tag you just set up, follow these steps:
Enter the Time Clock settings on the top right of the page.
Go to the Shift Entries tab and ensure that Job (or any other resource you use) is toggled on.
Click on the three dots next to the toggle and select Configure per device.
Scroll down to NFCs and select the relevant option. You can either allow users to clock into:
Any job using the NFC
Any job except a specific one
Specific job items only
Once you’ve selected the relevant jobs, users will only be able to track time for those jobs when clocking in via the NFC. This lets you assign different jobs to each NFC device, even if they are in the same general location.
What Users Will See When Clocking in
If you selected the option to allow users to clock in via NFC only, users will see a blue button allowing them to clock in, and will be asked to scan the NFC device:
If you selected the option to allow users to clock in both via NFC and via Mobile, users will be able to clock in by clicking on the blue Clock in button, or by clicking on the Scan NFC button, and scanning the NFC device.
How NFC Clock-in is Reflected on Users' Timesheets
By hovering over users' clock-in and out times in their timesheets, NFC clock-ins will be reflected by the NFC icon and display name, allowing admins to verify users clocked in via the NFC device.
Disclaimer
Attaching an NFC tag to a metallic surface like stainless steel can interfere with its readability and may even cause it to not work at all. This happens because metal absorbs or reflects the tag’s high-frequency electromagnetic signals, interfering with its antenna. If you received an NFC from Connecteam, it will already have a protective layer which prevents this, however if you have your own NFC tag, make sure to review the following suggestions.
To overcome this, there are a few effective solutions:
Use NFC tags with a metal-insulating layer (Anti-metal NFC tags): These tags are specially designed for metal surfaces and include a separating layer between the antenna and the surface.
Use an insulating sticker (Spacer): You can place a thin sticker (like thin foam or plastic) between the tag and the surface, so the tag isn't in direct contact with the stainless steel.
Attach the tag to a non-metallic surface: If possible, it's better to stick the tag onto a nearby plastic or non-metal part.
*Enabling NFC Clock in is available from the Advanced plan on the Operations hub*
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