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How to Create an Employee Clock In - Clock Out Shortcut

This article outlines how to create a desktop shortcut for Employee Clock In - Clock Out, enabling employees to access the function without logging into the C-Store Essentials account

Updated over 2 weeks ago

Step-by-Step Process

  1. Log in to your CStore Essentials Web Account

2. Navigate to the Payroll Section

  • On the left side of the screen, click on the Payroll option

  • Next click on the Settings button

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3. Copy the Employee Clock In Link

  • Locate the Link for Employee Clock In Text Box

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  • The pre-generated URL will appear in this format:

https://secure.cstorepro.com/EmaginePETCOSM/Login_Auto.aspx? Username=XXXXX&Password=XXXXX

  • Next copy the Link for Employee Clock In

    • Click on text area

    • Ctrl+A to select All

    • Ctrl+C to Copy

  • Click Reset button to generate a new secure link (if needed)

4. Create the Shortcut on Your Desktop

  • Right-click on your computer desktop

  • Select New and then click Shortcut

  • Under "Type the location of the item," paste the copied link

  • Then, click Next

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  • Under "Type a name for this shortcut," type a recognizable name to the shortcut (for example, "Employee Clock In - Clock Out")

  • Then, click Finish

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  • Your desktop now displays a shortcut for employees to clock in and clock out daily without accessing the C-Store Essentials account

  • Double-click the shortcut

  • Enter the password created during Employee setup under Payroll.

(Optional) Customize the shortcut icon:

  • Right-click on the shortcut and select Properties

  • Click Change Icon to select a different image for the shortcut

💡 Note:

  • If you typically use Google Chrome to log in to your CStore Essentials account, then set Microsoft Edge as your default web browser. This ensures the Employee Clock In/Clock Out shortcut automatically opens in Edge, preventing session conflicts that can cause “Session Expired” errors with your other User session active in Chrome.

  • The Employee Clock In - Clock Out feature is part of the C-Store Essentials payroll function and is not integrated with the point-of-sale register

  • The Clock In/Out link is unique to each account and must be copied directly from the Payroll page

Frequently Asked Questions

Can employees use the shortcut on any computer?

  • The shortcut must be created on the specific desktop where employees will clock in and clock out.

  • It does not transfer between computers unless the same process is followed to create the shortcut on each device.

Does the Employee Clock In - Clock Out feature sync with point of sale registers?

  • No, the Employee Clock In - Clock Out feature is a standalone payroll function in C-Store Essentials and is not integrated with point-of-sale registers.

Browser Tip for Employee Clock In/Clock Out Shortcut

  • If you typically use Google Chrome to log in to your CStore Essentials account, set Microsoft Edge as your default web browser. This ensures the Employee Clock In/Clock Out shortcut automatically opens in Edge, preventing session conflicts that can cause “Session Expired” errors with your other User session active in Chrome.

Can I generate timesheet reports from the Employee Clock In - Clock Out feature?

  • Yes, the Employee Clock In - Clock Out function allows you to generate detailed timesheet reports within the C-Store Essentials platform.

What happens if I lose the desktop shortcut?

  • You can recreate the shortcut by repeating the steps provided in this article.

  • Ensure you copy the Employee Clock In link again from the Payroll > Settings section of your C-Store Essentials account.

Can multiple employees use the same shortcut?

  • Yes, the shortcut allows all employees to clock in and clock out on the same device, provided it is configured for shared use.

Is there an alternative to using a desktop shortcut?

  • Employees can log in directly to the C-Store Essentials account to clock in and clock out, but the shortcut provides a quicker and more efficient method.

Can this feature be used for remote employees?

  • The Employee Clock In - Clock Out shortcut is designed for in-store use.

  • Remote employees would need separate access to clock in and clock out via the C-Store Essentials platform.

Can I change the icon for the Clock In/Out shortcut?

  • Yes, you can customize the desktop shortcut icon by right-clicking the shortcut, selecting Properties, and choosing a new icon.

What should I do if I do not know the correct tax rate?

  • Consult your accountant or payroll provider to obtain the correct tax rate for your state.

Can I edit employee details after saving?

  • Yes, you can update employee profiles and payroll information at any time from the Employee section in your dashboard.

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