How long must raters retain documentation supporting the annual rating?

The retention period for documentation supporting the annual rating is three full years. This timeframe is established to ensure that all necessary records are available for review, which can be important for various reasons, such as performance evaluations, potential audits, or disputes regarding ratings. Retaining documentation for this duration allows for a comprehensive review of an individual's performance over multiple years, providing a clearer picture of trends or changes in performance that may occur. It also aligns with best practices for maintaining adequate records in personnel management, ensuring both accountability and transparency in the evaluation process.