How to Ask For a Leave of Absence In USA
As an employee at a firm or organization, it is more than likely that you will come across a time in your life when you will have to get a Leave of Absence (LOA) for a valid reason.This could be done if you want to bond with your newborn child if you need to take care of a sick family member or have a serious health condition yourself amongst other circumstances.
What Is Leave of Absence (LOA)?
A Leave of Absence or LOA can be defined as the time an individual takes away from his or her job while still remaining an employee at the organization in that particular position. Generally, a termination date is set for the end of the leave of absence. There are various kinds of leave of absence which can be taken, such as maternity leave, each of which may have varying requirements and durations. You may also either have a paid or an unpaid leave.
How Can You Apply For Leave of Absence?
To begin with, you should be aware of the company’s policies regarding LOAs and try to inform your boss beforehand if possible to ensure proper management. You have to fill and turn in a Leave of Absence request form. Write a supplementary letter with your request form detailing the reason for which you need to take an LOA.
Legal Issues Around Employee Leave of Absence
It is possible for you to get a leave of Absence under the Family and Medical Health Act if you qualify. Under the FMLA, you can get over 12 weeks of leave if you have a serious health condition, have to care for a sick immediate family member, have adopted a child, or have to care for your own child.
If you have worked at least 6 hours per week for 6 months at your job, you can qualify for Medical Leave as well in your first 12 months of employment.
Informing Your Colleagues And Clients About Your Leave of Absence
Morally and ethically, it is important that you let your colleagues, coworkers, and heads know a substantial time before you plan to take a leave of absence. The reason is that while you will be taking a leave, the rest of the team will have to cover for you in your absence as the workload is not going to disappear- you will have to be compensated for. That is why it is a good idea to give everyone a heads up so they can adjust accordingly. Letting your clients know personally is also a good thing for your relationship with them.
Here are more Articles About Maternity & Bereavement leave in the States of USA
Leave Of Absence Request Form- The Where And The How?
You can go to the Human Resource department of your organization or company and ask for a Leave of Absence Request Form. this form will generally ask you the reason for requesting leave, the duration of the leave, and whether the leave is going to be paid or unpaid.
