The Best Way to Write a Leave of Absence Letter

A formal leave of absence letter requests an employment interruption, typically for health reasons. It requires the employer to withhold a portion of an employee’s pay.

When You Need a Leave of Absence Letter

When time off from work is not covered by your allotted sick days and personal days, you should write a letter. Confirm whether your leave of absence is going to be honored according to the employee handbook or state and federal laws.

So what should you write in your formal leave of absence letter?

What to Include in a Leave of Absence Letter

Your letter the reason explains why you need to leave. While you can explain your situation in person, it is preferable to do so in writing. A written letter becomes part of you company work record.

Provide a letter from a qualified physician as well. Get the physician to confirm whether you should have one-week leave or two weeks leave.

The date should be included at the top of the letter. You should also put your name, title or position, your home address, email and phone numbers.

Next, your Manager’s Information should go in. This lets the company know who the request was made to.

The dates of you’re going to be on leave should be in your formal leave of absence letter. Include exact dates.

It’s advisable to speak with your supervisor first before writing this letter.

As needed, provide assistance, for example training other team members. Then, close the letter with a line of thanks or consideration and end with attaching your signature.

Photo by Kenny Eliason on Unsplash

Why You Should Write a Leave of Absence Letter

You should write a leave of absence letter if you are taking a break from a current employment situation. Or, if you are looking for a new job.

Leaving your employment for a temporary duration is another good reason to write a letter. It’s not necessarily that you are looking for a new job. It might be more about making sure you are coming back under better circumstances where you are more competitive prospect.

You may need a leave of absence letter to celebrate different joyous occasions with your family or friends.

Maybe a worker must grieve the loss of a friend or prepare for a relative’s funeral.

Provisions You Should Make When Taking Leave

You should ensure that your finances and savings are in good shape before taking a leave of absence.

Also, you should have a clear idea of your career and professional goals before taking a leave. That way you know what you will be returning to.

You should be aware your employer is not compelled by federal law to approve your request or to grant paid leave. Exceptions are when you request medical leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), or need military leave of leave for jury duty,

To Wrap Up

A formal leave of absence letter allows you to ensure you are on the right side of the law. You will also be right with your company when you need to be away from work. Leaving your job can be difficult and emotional. With a leave of absence letter to aid you, everything will be managed correctly.

This letter allows you to both state your leave of absence and then also explain what will happen while you’re away.

Pam is an expert grammarian with years of experience teaching English, writing and ESL Grammar courses at the university level. She is enamored with all things language and fascinated with how we use words to shape our world.

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