Dealing with the loss of a loved one is incredibly difficult, and your employer understands that. To help you through this challenging time, many companies offer bereavement leave. This article provides guidance and a Sample Email Requesting Bereavement Leave, offering various email examples to fit different situations.
Understanding the Basics of Bereavement Leave
Bereavement leave allows employees to take time off work to grieve, attend the funeral, and handle related matters. Understanding how to formally request this leave is crucial during a time of emotional distress.
Here’s what you should know:
- **Company Policy:** Review your company’s policy on bereavement leave. This usually outlines the amount of leave granted (typically a few days), who qualifies (immediate family, extended family, etc.), and the documentation required (like a death certificate or obituary).
- **Notification:** You’ll usually need to notify your supervisor or HR department as soon as possible.
- **Email is Common:** While a phone call might come first, a follow-up email provides a written record of your request.
Here’s a table of common elements found in a bereavement leave email:
| Element | Description |
|---|---|
| Subject Line | Clear and concise, like “Bereavement Leave Request - [Your Name]” |
| Recipient | Your supervisor and/or HR department |
| Body | States the reason for the leave, the dates requested, and any other relevant details. |
| Closing | A polite closing and your contact information. |
Sample Email: Death of an Immediate Family Member (Parent)
Subject: Bereavement Leave Request - [Your Name]
Dear [Supervisor’s Name] and HR,
I am writing to request bereavement leave due to the passing of my mother/father, [Deceased’s Name], on [Date of Death].
I would like to request leave from [Start Date] to [End Date], returning to work on [Return Date]. I will need this time to make arrangements, attend the funeral, and be with my family.
I will notify you if anything changes. I will also be sure to complete any urgent tasks prior to my leave and will be available via email at [Your Email Address] for emergencies. Thank you for your understanding.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Job Title]
[Your Contact Information]
Sample Email: Death of a Spouse or Partner
Subject: Bereavement Leave Request - [Your Name]
Dear [Supervisor’s Name] and HR,
It is with deep sorrow that I inform you of the passing of my spouse/partner, [Deceased’s Name], on [Date of Death].
I am requesting bereavement leave from [Start Date] to [End Date] to attend to the necessary arrangements. I plan to return to work on [Return Date].
During my absence, please contact [Colleague’s Name] at [Colleague’s Email Address] or [Colleague’s Phone Number] for any urgent matters. I will check my email periodically at [Your Email Address] if needed. Thank you for your compassion.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Job Title]
[Your Contact Information]
Sample Email: Death of a Sibling
Subject: Bereavement Leave Request - [Your Name]
Dear [Supervisor’s Name] and HR,
I am writing to request bereavement leave following the death of my sibling, [Deceased’s Name], who passed away on [Date of Death].
I would like to request leave from [Start Date] to [End Date], returning on [Return Date]. I need to travel to [Location of Funeral/Arrangements] and support my family during this time.
I will do my best to complete any critical tasks before my leave. I can be reached at [Your Email Address] for urgent situations. Thank you for your support.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Job Title]
[Your Contact Information]
Sample Email: Death of a Grandparent
Subject: Bereavement Leave Request - [Your Name]
Dear [Supervisor’s Name] and HR,
I am writing to request bereavement leave due to the passing of my grandparent, [Deceased’s Name], on [Date of Death].
I plan to take leave from [Start Date] to [End Date], returning to work on [Return Date], to attend the funeral and be with my family.
I will ensure that all my urgent responsibilities are taken care of before I leave. I will also have limited access to email at [Your Email Address]. Thank you for your understanding and support during this difficult time.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Job Title]
[Your Contact Information]
Sample Email: Death of a Close Friend (If Covered by Company Policy)
Subject: Bereavement Leave Request - [Your Name]
Dear [Supervisor’s Name] and HR,
I am writing to request bereavement leave following the passing of my close friend, [Deceased’s Name], on [Date of Death]. (Please note that bereavement leave for a close friend may or may not be covered by your company policy; check your company’s HR guidelines or employee handbook).
I am requesting leave from [Start Date] to [End Date], and I plan to return to work on [Return Date]. I would like to use this time to [reason, such as attend the funeral, provide support to the family, etc.].
I will complete my urgent tasks before my leave. Please contact [Colleague’s Name] at [Colleague’s Email Address] or [Colleague’s Phone Number] for any urgent matters. I can be reached via email at [Your Email Address] if necessary. Thank you for your support and understanding.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Job Title]
[Your Contact Information]
Sample Email: Informing about Reduced Working Hours (Due to Grief)
Subject: Request for Adjusted Working Hours - [Your Name]
Dear [Supervisor’s Name] and HR,
Following the passing of [Deceased’s Name] on [Date of Death], I am writing to request adjusted working hours to help me balance my responsibilities and manage my grief.
I understand the importance of my work and am committed to fulfilling my duties. I would like to request a reduced work schedule of [State adjusted hours/days] from [Start Date] to [End Date]. If this is not possible I will require time off for bereavement.
I will remain available by email at [Your Email Address] and will keep you updated on my work status during this time. Thank you for your understanding and support.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Job Title]
[Your Contact Information]
Remember, these are sample emails, and you may need to adjust them based on your specific situation and company policies. Communicate clearly and concisely, and don’t hesitate to seek support from your HR department or Employee Assistance Program (EAP) if available. Sending a *Sample Email Requesting Bereavement Leave* can be a small step in managing a difficult time, allowing you the space you need to grieve.