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Free register template · Word

Employee File Index

An employee file index is the contents page placed at the front of each personnel file. It lists every document by section, with date and page number, so anyone authorised can find a document quickly and spot what is missing.

  • Editable Word (.docx)
  • Made for India
  • 14 fill-in fields highlighted
  • Free, no sign-up

Preview of the register

[Highlighted] = fill in
[Company Logo][Company Name]

EMPLOYEE FILE INDEX

Employee Name:
[Employee Name]
Employee ID:
[Employee ID]
File Opened:
[DD/MM/YYYY]
File Custodian:
[HR Name]
SectionDocumentDocument DateFolio / PageAccess LevelAdded by
1. JoiningOffer letter and acceptance[DD/MM/YYYY][1-2]HR[Initials]
1. JoiningAppointment letter[DD/MM/YYYY][3-5]HR[Initials]
2. StatutoryPF / ESIC declarations, nominations[DD/MM/YYYY][6-9]HR[Initials]
3. CompensationIncrement and revision letters[DD/MM/YYYY][10]HR – restricted[Initials]
4. Performance and TrainingAppraisal forms, certificates[DD/MM/YYYY][11-14]HR[Initials]
5. Conduct (sealed)[Document][DD/MM/YYYY][Page]HR head only[Initials]
6. ExitResignation, relieving letter, F&F[DD/MM/YYYY][Page]HR[Initials]

File Review Log

Review DateReviewed byDocuments Removed (past retention)Remarks
[DD/MM/YYYY][HR Name][List / None][Remarks]
[DD/MM/YYYY][HR Name][List / None][Remarks]

Medical documents are not kept in this file; they are held separately with restricted access. This file is reviewed periodically and documents past their retention period are securely destroyed.

What this template includes

  • Standard sections such as joining, statutory, compensation, performance and exit
  • Document title and date
  • Page or folio number
  • Access level for sensitive sections
  • Added-by initials
  • Last-reviewed date

When to use it

  • Opening a new personnel file at joining
  • Reorganising old files into standard sections
  • Preparing files for an audit or due diligence
  • Handing over files when the HR executive changes

How to customise this template

  1. 1Fix a standard section order for all files
  2. 2Mark restricted sections such as medical or disciplinary
  3. 3Use folio numbers in physical files and folder names in digital ones
  4. 4Print on coloured paper so it is easy to find
  5. 5Update the index every time a document is added

HR tips

  • Store medical and disciplinary papers in sealed or restricted sub-sections
  • Do not add documents without updating the index
  • Use the same index in physical and digital files
  • Review files annually to remove documents past retention

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Frequently asked questions

What is an employee file index?+

It is a contents list at the front of a personnel file showing each document, section and page number.

What sections should a personnel file have?+

Common sections are joining, identity and statutory, compensation, performance and training, conduct, and exit.

Who can access an employee's file?+

Only authorised HR staff, and others with a legitimate need, such as auditors; the employee can view their own records on request.