Am I obligated to take on the role of looking after petty cash?

Question

I work in a small office as a secretary and another secretary who is normally on charge of the petty cash tin is leaving in a couple of weeks and I have a feeling they will ask me to take it over. However, I do not want this duty. Am I obligated to take it on, or am I within my rights to refuse?

Answer 1

well it all really depends on your boss as welll as your job title and description, any small office should have a safe in the back room where petty cash can be held and accounted for.

Answer 2

Well, you could refuse to do anything and then they could refuse to pay you.  You could always tell them that you are uncomfortable handling that but if there is no one else then bite the bullet and do it.

Answer 3

You have the right to refuse that responsibility, but it's up to the company to decide how they'll respond to your refusal.  

Answer 4

Consult your job description.  Also talk to your boss and HR to let them know you not interssted in the responsiblity, and have a compelling reason as to why.  Your job description may state something such as "and other duties as assigned (or requested)".  Even if it doesn't specifically say this, unless you union or have a signed something that limits your scope of work, it is likely that they could add this to your job description.

Employment laws very greatly depending on what state/country you work in, so you may also want to check laws regarding cash handling and changes in responsibility to see how they apply to your situation.

Answer 5

well you have to weigh a couple of things here. although you are not obligated, refusing could make you look bad. it could make you look like you're not a "team player". also how is your company with raises, since you are taking on a new task, that is some leverage to prove you're worthy or higher pay!

i can tell you that i help manage the petty cash at my company and it's not hard at all.  

Answer 6

Hi, Clairy: I am afraid so

I took the time to deconstruct your IP adr and so was able to contact your company for more details

I sent them your question and I was told the company does not want to hire a new person for this

In a small company, personal choices are relative, but thankfully, you work for a good company (I checked with the BBB)

Answer 7

It is likely they would ask you.  It should be considered a sign of trust by your employer.  If you are afraid to take it over, you need to say so when they offer it to you.  You don't have to do it unless they tell you that refusing will cost you the job.  Expressing you don't want the responsibility won't look great for you though.