Leave of absence letter for family reasons (Samples)

By OptimistMinds

As a BetterHelp affiliate, we may receive compensation from BetterHelp if you purchase products or services through the links provided.

The Optimistminds editorial team is made up of psychologists, psychiatrists and mental health professionals. Each article is written by a team member with exposure to and experience in the subject matter. The article then gets reviewed by a more senior editorial member. This is someone with extensive knowledge of the subject matter and highly cited published material.

OptimistMinds

In this guide we will discuss leave of absence letter for family reasons, considerations and scenarios where you could as for this type of leave, some letter templated and things to consider after you have requested the leave of absence.

Leave of absence letter for family reasons

You may be considering, “How is the best way to handle leave of absence letter for family reasons?” and how to write one? You could start with the request for leave indicating the start and date of your leave. Then you could provide a valid reason why you are questing the leave and then (if possible) provide the name of the person or people that will be covering you.

However, before asking for a leave of absence letter for family reasons consider if the period of time you will be requesting is longer than your usual holiday allowance or if there are any additional options you could take advantage of when asking for this type of leave (e.g. Compassionate leave, unpaid leave, etc). A different scenario to consider is the death of a family member, having to attend to the funeral since someone you loved has passed away.

Subsequently, it is recommended to have a plan B. On many occasions, at the worst case scenario, you will be forced into considering handing in your resignation letter as a last resort since when you are an employee and you have a contract, you need to avoid being absent without letting your employer know. This can carry disciplinary actions and even your dismissal.

NOTE: remember your employer is not obligated to grant the leave of absence letter for family reasons, and they may reject it even if you have submitted a formal application with plenty of time for consideration.

Sample 1:

Your City, postal code

Your Phone Number

City, postal code

Dear Mr./Ms. [Lastname]:

I would like to formally request a two-month leave of absence for personal reasons. If possible, I would like the leave from work to begin on August 1, 2019, with a return date of October 1, 2019.

If approved, I will be staying with family in [Anycity] during this time period, and I would be glad to assist with any questions via email or phone whenever possible.

Thank you very much for your consideration.

Your Signature (hard copy letter)

Your Typed Name”

Sample 2: (email)

“Subject: Leave of Absence Request—Michaela Fox

As we discussed, I am requesting a personal leave of absence from work for family reasons from January 15, 2020, through February 28, 2020.

If approved, I will return to the office on March 1, 2020. I’d be glad to assist with planning for covering my responsibilities when I am away.

Thank you very much for your consideration.

Sample 3:

“Dear [Manager Name],

I would like to request for a leave of absence for family reasons. I plan to leave on [start date] and return on [return date].

During my absence, John will be covering for me. I spoke to him, and he is more than happy to assume my responsibilities during my absence.

Thank you very much for understanding.

Sample 4:

This template adjusts to the scenario when you have to request leave of absence letter for family reasons to take care of a sick family member.

“Dear Mr/Mrs Last Name,

As you are aware, my (family member) is having some serious health issues. Although (she/he) has seen a number of different healthcare providers and endured numerous tests, (she/he) needs surgery. (Describe details of surgery). As you understand, this is a very tough time for our family, so I will need to request the full 12-week sick allowance available to me.

My (family member’s) doctor has completed the request form which I received from HR. Please find the letter attached to the email. As I understand that my absence will be a hindrance, I am giving you a month’s notice in order for you to find a temporary replacement. My (family member’s) surgery is scheduled for (insert date) meaning that I am able to work until (insert date), to ensure that everything is in order before my departure.

I anticipate that my return date will be (insert date). While this is just an estimate, I do hope that I can return to work before this time.

I appreciate your understanding.