cover letter for leave of absence

7 Examples: How to Write a Perfect Leave of Absence Request

By Status.net Editorial Team on November 9, 2023 — 11 minutes to read

• Understanding the Basics of a Leave of Absence Request Part 1
• Steps to Write a Leave of Absence Request Part 2
• What to Include in a Leave of Absence Request Part 3
• Examples of Leave of Absence Requests Part 4
• Leave of Absence Request Template Part 5
• Personal Reasons Leave of Absence Templates Part 6
• Maternity Leave of Absence Template Part 7
• What to Avoid in Your Leave of Absence Request Part 8

Part 1 Understanding the Basics of a Leave of Absence Request

Before you start writing your leave of absence request, it’s important to understand the basics. A leave of absence request is a formal document that you submit to your employer, asking for time off from work for a specific reason. This can be for personal reasons, medical issues, or family matters. It’s important to know the policies and guidelines of your company to ensure your request is submitted appropriately.

• Check your company’s leave policy. Familiarize yourself with the types of leaves that are allowed, the maximum duration you can request, and any approvals or documentation required. This information is usually found in your company handbook or can be requested from Human Resources.
• When drafting your request, be clear about the reason for your leave. It’s important to be honest and straightforward, without going into too much personal detail. State the specific dates you plan to be away from work and any necessary arrangements, like reassigning your tasks to a colleague.

Try to submit your leave of absence request well in advance, allowing enough time for your employer to review and approve your request. This will demonstrate your professionalism and consideration for your team.

Part 2 Steps to Write a Leave of Absence Request

Subject line and formal greeting.

Start your leave of absence request with a clear and concise subject line. Include relevant information, such as your name and the dates of your intended leave. For example: “John Doe’s Leave of Absence Request – June 1-15, 2025.” As a friendly way to start your message, address your email or letter to your supervisor or manager using their appropriate title, such as “Dear Mr. Smith” or “Dear Dr. Johnson.”

Explaining Your Reason for Leave

In the opening paragraph, state the purpose of your leave in a clear and simple manner. Explain the reason for your absence, whether it’s a personal matter, family emergency, or medical concern. Be genuine with your reason to help your supervisor better understand your situation.

Providing the Time Frame

Clearly state the exact dates of your requested leave in the second paragraph. Include the start and end dates of your absence. This shows consideration for your employer’s planning and helps them to manage workload adjustments. For example: “I will be absent from work starting on June 1 and plan to return on June 15.”

Plan of Action During Your Absence

Demonstrate your responsibility by outlining a plan of action for your workload during your leave. This may include delegating tasks to colleagues, completing certain projects before your absence, or being available for limited communication if required. For instance: “Before my leave, I will complete all of my current projects and assign any ongoing tasks to my colleague, Jane Smith. If needed, I will be reachable via email for any urgent matters.”

Closing Your Letter

In the closing paragraph, express your gratitude for your employer’s understanding and support. Offer to discuss your request further in a meeting or call if needed. Example: “Thank you for considering my request. I appreciate your understanding and support during this time. Please let me know if you need any additional information or if you would like to discuss my request further.”

Review Before Sending

Before hitting send, give your email or letter a thorough read. Check for any spelling or grammar errors, ensure all important details are included, and that your message is clear and concise. This will help you present a polished and professional leave of absence request.

Part 3 What to Include in a Leave of Absence Request

When writing a leave of absence request, make sure to include the following elements:

• Your name and contact information: Begin by mentioning your full name, position, and department. It’s also good to provide your contact information such as email and phone number in case your manager needs to reach you.
• Leave type and reason: Clearly state the type of leave you’re requesting and provide a brief explanation for the reason behind your request. Be specific but maintain your privacy, especially when dealing with sensitive matters.
• Start and end dates: Include the exact dates you plan to be away from work. Providing this information helps your manager know how long they should expect you to be gone and allows them to plan accordingly.
• Work coverage plan: Explain how you’ve arranged for your work to be covered during your absence. If you’ve talked with a coworker who has agreed to handle your tasks, mention their name and workload distribution.
• Additional documentation (if applicable): In some cases, you may be required to provide medical or legal documentation to support your leave request. Attach any necessary documents as per your company’s policy.

Part 4 Examples of Leave of Absence Requests

In this section, you’ll find some practical examples and templates to help you write a leave of absence request with ease.

Example for Personal Reasons

Dear [Supervisor’s Name],

I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request a leave of absence for personal reasons, specifically from [start date] to [end date]. I understand that this time away may require adjustments within the team, and I assure you that I will do my best to minimize any potential disruption.

Before my leave begins, I intend to delegate my tasks to [colleague’s name or team] and provide them with any necessary guidance. If any urgent situations arise during my absence, please feel free to contact me via [phone/email], and I will promptly respond.

Thank you for your understanding and assistance in accommodating my request.

Best regards, [Your Name]

Example for Maternity Leave

I am excited to share that I am expecting a baby, with the due date being around [due date]. With this, I kindly request maternity leave, which I would like to start on [start date] and return on [expected return date]. This should provide ample time for me to prepare, give birth, and bond with my newborn.

During my leave, I will ensure a smooth transition of my responsibilities to [colleague’s name or team], keeping you updated on my progress. If any questions or concerns arise during my absence, I will be available via [phone/email].

Thank you in advance for your consideration and support during this exciting time in my life.

Templates for Leave of Absence Request

Below are a few templates to help you write a leave of absence request for different situations. They will serve as a starting point for your own letters, ensuring you cover all necessary details in a professional manner.

Part 5 Leave of Absence Request Template

Dear [Recipient’s Name],

I am writing to request a leave of absence from [start date] to [end date] due to [reason for leave]. I have reviewed our company’s leave policy and believe that I qualify for this time off.

During my absence, I have arranged for [colleague’s name] to handle my responsibilities, ensuring a smooth transition in my absence.

Please find the attached documentation relating to my request [if applicable]. I understand that this request is subject to approval and would appreciate your prompt response so I can finalize any necessary arrangements.

Thank you for considering my request, and please do not hesitate to contact me if you need any additional information or clarification.

[Your Name] [Your contact information]

Part 6 Personal Reasons Leave of Absence Templates

Personal reasons leave template 1.

Subject: [Your Name] – Leave of Absence Request

I am writing to request a personal leave of absence from work for [duration, e.g., two weeks] starting from [start date] and ending on [end date]. My leave is due to [briefly explain your personal reason, e.g., a family matter or other personal matter that requires your attention].

During my absence, I have planned for [colleague’s name or your suggestion] to cover my workload and ensure a smooth transition. I will also be available via email for urgent matters.

Please let me know if you require additional information to consider my leave request. I kindly request your approval for my leave, and I will be happy to discuss any concerns or adjustments if necessary.

[Your Name]

Personal Reasons Leave Template 2

Subject: [Your Name] – Leave of Absence Request for Personal Reasons

I hope you are doing well. I would like to request a [length of leave] leave of absence starting from [start date] due to personal reasons. I understand this might cause some inconvenience, but I assure you I will do my best to ensure a smooth handover of my current tasks and responsibilities.

During my absence, I propose [colleague’s name] as a suitable replacement, but I am open to any other arrangements you suggest.

I appreciate your understanding and consideration of my request. Please let me know of any paperwork or further details required.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

Personal Reasons Leave Template 3

Subject: [Your Name] – Leave of Absence Request (Start Date – End Date)

Dear [Manager’s Name],

I hope this message finds you well. I would like to request a leave of absence from my position as [Your Position] in the [Your Department] department. I am requesting this leave for personal reasons and plan to be away from [Start Date] to [End Date].

During my absence, I have spoken with [Coworker’s Name], who has agreed to cover my responsibilities. We’ll work together before I leave to ensure a smooth transition and minimize any disruptions to the team.

Please let me know if there are any additional steps needed or if you require further information. I look forward to your understanding and approval of my leave request. Thank you.

[Your Name] [Your Email Address] [Your Phone Number]

Part 7 Maternity Leave of Absence Template

Subject: [Your Name] – Maternity Leave of Absence Request

I am excited to inform you that I am expecting a baby, and the due date is [due date]. I would like to request maternity leave of absence as per company policy, starting from [start date] until [end date].

Before my leave, I will coordinate with my team and [colleague’s name] who can cover my responsibilities while I am away. Please let me know if you require any further information or arrangements to ensure a smooth transition.

Thank you for your support, and I look forward to celebrating the birth of my child with you all upon my return.

Part 8 What to Avoid in Your Leave of Absence Request

When writing a leave of absence request, there are certain things you should avoid to ensure your request doesn’t come across as unprofessional or lack clarity.

1. Sharing Too Much Information: You may feel the need to share every detail of your personal life or reasons for the leave. However, this may not be necessary. Share only what is relevant to your leave request and maintain a professional tone. A simple explanation like “medical reasons” or “family emergency” will suffice.

2. Ignoring Timing: Be mindful of the timing of your request. If your company experiences busy seasons or has significant projects in progress, it may not be the ideal time to request a leave. It’s important to be considerate of your company’s needs while also taking care of your own.

3. Making Demands: A leave of absence request is not a demand, but rather a polite inquiry. Approach your request with a collaborative and understanding mindset. Frame your request as a courteous question—not as an entitlement or expectation.

4. Being Vague: Your request must include specific information about the duration of your leave and the start and end dates. Being vague can make it difficult for your employer to make decisions and cause confusion.

5. Skipping the Proofreading: Ensure your request is well-written, free of grammatical errors, and typo-free. Your leave request represents you and your seriousness about the matter. A poorly edited request might cast doubt on your professionalism and commitment to your job.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some common reasons to request a leave of absence from work.

Some common reasons for requesting a leave of absence from work include personal reasons, medical reasons (for you or a family member), education or professional development, and vacation. You may also request a leave for parental reasons, such as maternity or paternity leave.

How do I start my leave of absence request letter?

To start your leave of absence request letter, begin with a professional and respectful salutation, addressing the recipient by name (e.g., “Dear Mr. Smith” or “Dear Ms. Brown”). Then, in the opening paragraph, clearly state your intention to request a leave of absence, specifying the reason for your request and the desired start and end dates.

What should be included in the body of a leave of absence request?

In the body of your leave of absence request, provide any relevant details to support your request and address the potential impact of your absence on your work and team. You may want to include information about the reason for your leave, such as medical documentation or confirmation of a family event. Also, mention any arrangements you have made to cover your work responsibilities during your absence or suggest possible solutions to minimize the impact on your team.

Are there any important tips for writing a leave request for vacation?

When requesting a leave for vacation, make sure to submit your request with ample notice, considering your workplace’s leave policy and any peak periods that may require your presence at work. Provide the specific dates of your planned vacation, offer assistance in making arrangements to delegate your work during your absence, and be flexible about adjusting your plans if necessary to accommodate your team’s needs. Keep your request concise and professional, while expressing your enthusiasm for the time off.

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Needing time off work happens from time to time, which means you’ll need to write a leave of absence letter request. A well-written letter can increase your chances of being granted a leave of absence and staying on good terms with your supervisor and your team. If you’re in need of a leave of absence, we’ll go over how to request a leave of absence from work, provide some example leave of absence letters, and some common reasons for needing a leave of absence. Key Takeaways: A leave of absence is an extended period of time when you will not be formally working while still maintaining your position at a company. The formal process for requesting a leave of absence involves sending a letter to your supervisor as well as higher management and getting this request approved. You do this for documentation purposes, as well as to clarify your specific needs in your request. Leaves of absence are taken for various reasons, including medical needs, birth or adoption of a child, or other urgent personal needs. In This Article    Skip to section How to request a leave of absence from work Example letters for leave of absence Leave of absence letter template What is the family and medical leave act? Do’s and don’ts for requesting a leave of absence Common reasons to request a leave of absence Leave of absence FAQs References Sign Up For More Advice and Jobs Show More How to request a leave of absence from work

When requesting a leave of absence from work, be sure you know your company policies and state laws regarding your work absence and then determine how long you are going to be gone. Here is a more detailed list of how to request a leave of absence from work:

Know your company policies and state laws regarding work absences. The first thing you’re going to want to do is check your employee handbook and become familiar with your company’s policies on leaves of absence.

See what the leave benefits are (if there are any). Check whether or not your company will still pay you during this leave and plan accordingly.

Determine the time frame. Your second step is determining how long you will need time off of work.

Keep in mind that you’re going to need to justify each day taken off, and your supervisors are not likely to approve a leave of absence that requests an excessive amount of time off without good reason. If you have a doctor ’s note or other documentation specifying the amount of time you need off, be sure to include that and factor it in.

Meet with your supervisor to discuss your absence. As soon as you determine that you need a leave of absence and the general timeline, meet with your direct supervisor to discuss your request.

Consider your options. After meeting with your supervisor, consider the options you discussed or the available options. You may have the opportunity to temporarily reduce work hours, work from home, or other measures in which you will still be working but with added flexibility for your circumstances .

Create your leave of absence letter. Finally — after considering all of the above steps — you’ll create your formal letter notifying your boss of your leave of absence. Craft this letter for your supervisor and whomever else you are required to notify formally.

Tell your team. After sending your letter, decide with your supervisor how you will inform your colleagues of your absence. You may need to tell them personally, or someone may take care of it for you.

Example letters for leave of absence

Your letters should be sent after meeting and discussing your absence with your direct supervisor, but prior to discussing this absence with your coworkers. Here are some examples of letters for a leave of absence for different scenarios you may encounter:

Leave of absence email request example

Subject: [Leave of Absence – Megan Gordon] February 19, 2021 Dear Sharon, I’m writing to request a formal leave of absence from work starting next month due to a recent family emergency. I plan to take this leave from March 8, 2023, through April 2, 2023. I plan to return to work on April 5, 2023. As discussed, this is a tentative date based on my current family circumstances. I will update you with adequate notice if I need to create a plan for returning to work at a later date. In preparation for my leave, I am willing to train my colleagues to complete projects in my absence and communicate with my clients. During my leave, I will be available periodically to answer urgent questions through email or cell phone. Thank you for your assistance in this process and your consideration. Regards, Megan Gordon (618)-219-8705 [email protected]

Medical leave of absence request letter example

Subject: [Leave of Absence – Treyvon Moore] June 1, 2021 Dear Ms. King, I am submitting this request for a leave of absence following an upcoming medical procedure on June 26. My doctor requires a recovery period of two weeks, so my leave will begin on June 28 and end on July 9, 2023. I have attached her signed recommendation. As per my doctor’s orders, I will be able to return to work on July 12, 2023. Please let me know if there is anything I can do to assist in covering my workload during my absence. Thank you for your time and understanding. Best regards, Treyvon Moore (919)-231-8124 [email protected]

Leave of absence for personal reasons request letter example

Subject: [Leave of Absence – Elena Forbes] Dear Mr. Gilbert, I am writing to formally request a leave of absence from my position at XYZ Company from August 31 to September 15, 2023. The reason for this leave is due to personal circumstances that require my immediate attention and presence. I am committed to ensuring a smooth transition during my absence and minimizing any disruption to the team’s operations. During my absence, I will ensure that all pending tasks are completed or handed over to a designated colleague. I am confident that my colleagues have the expertise to manage any unexpected situations that may arise in my absence. I am also open to being available for consultation via email or phone to address any urgent matters that may require my input. Thank you for considering my request. I appreciate your understanding and support during this time. Please let me know if there are any specific procedures or forms I need to complete in order to finalize this request. Sincerely, Elena Forbes (123) 456-7890 [email protected]

Leave of absence letter template

Here is a template for a leave of absence request that gives an example of how you might format a written letter.

Leave of Absence Written Letter Example

[Your Name] [Your Address] [Your Phone Number] [Other Relevant Contact Information] December 8, 2020 [Your Supervisor’s Name] [Company or Organization] [Company or Organization Address] Dear [Supervisor’s name], This is a formal written request notifying of my intention to take a two-week leave of absence for personal reasons. As discussed in our meeting yesterday, I hope to take this leave from [start date] through [return date] if this is still a timeframe that works for you. I will be able to return to work on [return date]. Please let me know if I can be of any assistance in making preparations for my absence. Don’t hesitate to contact me with any further questions. Thank you for your understanding during this difficult time. Sincerely, [4 lines of blank space for a written signature] [Your name]

What is the family and medical leave act?

The Family and Medical Leave Act is a federal labor law established in 1993. The FMLA’s purpose is to protect employees who have genuine private concerns outside of work that they need to take time off from work. There are several key points to FMLA that you will want to understand when requesting a leave of absence:

Eligibility. The FMLA states that eligible employees must receive an unpaid leave of absence in the event of family reasons (birth, adoption, etc.) or health issues. The FMLA only applies to companies that employ more than 50 individuals, and to employees who have worked at least a year with the company for at least 1,250 hours ( part-time ) over the past year.

What you receive. Note that while companies are not mandated to pay employees who take leaves of absence, these employees’ benefits remain, most importantly their employer-sponsored health insurance. Employees who are approved for a leave of absence under the FMLA must receive the same job they had when they left or a job of similar pay with similar responsibilities.

How many weeks. You can take up to 12 weeks of unpaid time off out of the year under the FMLA. If you need to take a leave of absence to care for a military service member who’s dealing with a serious medical condition, this time frame is extended to 26 weeks. These weeks don’t have to be taken consecutively, and federal holidays don’t count against your total days taken off through the FMLA.

Other state laws. Some states also have laws that are more generous for employees. For example, in California , employees still receive 60-70% of their average earnings while on a family leave of absence. Be sure to look into your state’s guidelines to learn the exact details.

The FMLA is the absolute minimum that companies of this size must follow. Many organizations choose to offer much more generous leave packages, especially for those leaving for parental leave.

Do’s and don’ts for requesting a leave of absence

When giving your leave of absence letter, you should give plenty of notice and be sure to inform your boss first. Here are some more general rules of thumb when requesting a leave of absence.

DO: Give adequate notice.

DON’T: Wait until the last minute.

Give your supervisors and your team time to plan for your absence by submitting your request as soon as possible.

DO: Communicate with your direct supervisor first.

DON’T: Tell coworkers or clients before your supervisor.

You don’t want your supervisor to feel like you are keeping secrets, as this can erode trust. So be sure to tell her of your plans before you tell others.

DO: Offer gratitude and further assistance.

DON’T: Make the details of your departure unclear.

Try to let your team know explicitly how you can help in preparation for and during your absence. Be helpful to others in whatever capacity you are able, as your absence may increase their workload.

Common reasons to request a leave of absence

Having a new child, medical reasons, or a death in the family are some of the most common reasons to request a leave of absence. Some more common reasons to request a leave of absence outside of normal PTO include:

New child. Maternity and paternity leave are the most common reasons why employees take extended leaves of absence. Different companies might have different policies, but the FMLA covers the bare minimum requirements for coverage (more on that below).

Medical reasons. When you need to get surgery or treat a condition, you probably won’t be able to continue with your normal occupation for a little while. The FMLA also covers these reasons, including if the medical issue is with a family member that you’re caring for full-time.

Education. Choosing to go back to school is a legitimate reason to request a leave of absence, but it’s best to talk to your supervisor about your goals and get on the same page about how your education will help you do more at work.

Death in the family. Employers won’t always make you take PTO days when you suddenly need to attend a funeral or deal with a death in the family.

Military. People in the Army Reserve should be forthcoming when taking a job, but most employers are happy to have armed service members working for them. These leaves of absence may also be taken for family members who need time off for military reasons.

Jury duty. It can happen to any over the age of 18. When this happens and you are picked to be a part of a jury, depending on the court case, you could be out of work for a couple of weeks. When this happens you need to let your employer know.

Leave of absence FAQs

What does it mean to take a leave of absence?

A leave of absence is an extended period of time off from work that is due to circumstances not covered by PTO or sick days. A leave of absence is usually longer than what either your PTO or sick days would cover. It is usually the result of out-of-the-ordinary circumstances such as childbirth, death in the family, or medical reasons.

Is a leave of absence better than quitting?

Yes, a leave of absence is better than quitting. If you know you will want to return to your job, or even if you don’t know, but you consider it a possibility, then a leave of absence is a good choice. Quitting your job is final, which will make your professional circumstances much harder down the line.

How do you ask for a leave of absence?

To ask for a leave of absence:

Research your company’s leave of absence policy

Determine your reasons and time frame

Meet with your supervisor

Consider your options

Draft a leave of absence letter

Inform your coworkers

These steps ensure you ask for leave of absence in a professional, thought-out manner.

Can an employer refuse to give you unpaid leave?

Yes, an employer can refuse to give you unpaid leave depending on your reasons and company policy. If your reasons are not covered by FMLA or some other state or Federal law, then it is up to the discretion of your employer to decide what type of unpaid leave is appropriate. That is why it is important for you to look into company policy before you ask for a leave of absence.

What are some reasons for taking a leave of absence from work?

Having a child, caring for a sick family member, or pursuing your education are some common reasons for a leave of absence. Having a medical emergency, a death in the family, and jury duty are other common reasons for needing a leave of absence.

U.S. Department of Labor – Family and Medical Leave Act

Office of Personnel Management – Fact Sheet: Family and Medical Leave

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Roger Raber has been a content writer at Zippia for over a year and has authored several hundred articles. Having retired after 28 years of teaching writing and research at both the high school and college levels, Roger enjoys providing career details that help inform people who are curious about a new job or career. Roger holds a BA in English from Cleveland State University and a MA from Marygrove college.

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