Leave of Absence Example Letters

Using leave of absence example letters to write a letter to your boss can get you some needed time off without losing your position.

There are several reasons you may need to write a leave of absence letter. Here are the most common uses:

• Medical reasons
• Military duty
• Education
• Family care
• Religious
• Financial
• Personal

Consider your options and company policy before submitting a leave of absence letter. Some companies have specific guidelines about requesting a leave of absence, while others won’t consider them unless enforced by law (such as maternity or military leave). Speak with your boss or personnel department to find out if the reason for your absence is considered legitimate according to company policy.

If asking for a leave of absence for personal reasons, you may need to explain the reason. Vacations or general time off may not be allowed unless you’ve earned enough vacation days to cover the absence.

Before asking for a leave of absence, think about what’s going on at work. If there is a major project coming up, the chance of a general leave of absence granted is not likely. Also consider your personal situation and whether you will ask for paid leave or not.

It’s also a good idea to speak to colleagues that may help fill your position before submitting your leave of absence letter. Having a plan in place to cover your position may help to get your request approved.

Send a confirming letter once your leave of absence letter has been approved. Write this letter as a thank you letter that can also serve as documented proof that your boss as approved your leave of absence. Distribute copies to your supervisor, personnel department and anyone expected to share your work duties during your absence.

All leave of absence letters should be written in standard business letter format. The letter should start with the date, your name and contact information, the body of the letter, and end with your signature and typed name. Type the letter on clean paper in a block or modified format. Format most leave of absence example letters in plain block style.

The details of the leave of absence letter should include your reason for requesting the leave of absence, the date you expect to leave, and your expected return date.

Always end the letter by thanking your employer for his or her consideration for the request.

Leave of absence example letters can be used for several different types of absences, but here are some examples of the most common forms.

Date

Your name Title/position Address City, state, zip code

Mr./Ms. Employer’s last name:

I would like to request a 20-day leave of absence for personal reasons. If approved, I would like to have my last day at work to be on May 31 and first day of return on June 21.

I can still be available by email or phone during this absence from the office to assist with any questions or problems.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,

Your signature

Your typed name

Date

Your name Title/position Address City, state, zip code

Mr./Ms. Employer’s last name:

I would like to request a leave of absence for medical reasons. I will be having surgery on November 17 and expect to return approximately three weeks later.

I can provide written documentation from the surgeon, if necessary.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,

Your signature

Your typed name

• Don’t write a leave of absence letter if you don’t plan on coming back to your job. In this case, you should be writing a resignation letter.

• Be specific when writing the dates of your departure and return. If you don’t know when you will be back, explain this and the reason why you don’t know. If the return date depends on a birth, recovery or other factor, let your employer know this.

• Leave a phone number or email address for your employer to contact you if a problem arises. If your position will be vacant or filled by a temporary employee, the company may need your help on specific problems. If you cannot be available during your absence, leave detailed instructions for your employer to follow.
• Written by Traci Benoit

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