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Leave of absence request letter

Need time away from work? Add your manager's name, your name and the dates of your leave, plus how your work will be covered. Get a clear, polite request letter.

Private. Runs in your browser; nothing you type leaves your device.

For example: Ms. Okafor.

Optional. For example: Sam Ortiz has agreed to handle my client accounts.

How to use it

  1. Check your employer's policy. Read your employer's leave policy or employee handbook, or ask HR, so you know how to request leave, how far ahead to ask and what information to include.
  2. Fill in the details. Add your manager's name, your name and the first and last days of your leave. Add how your work will be covered if you have arranged it.
  3. Send it and follow up. Pick the medical, personal or family version, send it by email or as a letter, and ask your manager or HR for written confirmation of your approved dates.

Example

What was entered

Your manager's name
Ms. Okafor
Your name
Jordan Lee
First day of leave
November 2, 2026
Last day of leave
December 11, 2026
How your work will be covered
Sam Ortiz has agreed to handle my client accounts

Medical leave

Subject: Leave of absence request: November 2, 2026 to December 11, 2026

Dear Ms. Okafor,

I am writing to request a medical leave of absence from November 2, 2026 to December 11, 2026. I need this time to focus on my health and recovery. I would prefer to keep the details private, and I am glad to provide any documentation our leave policy asks for.

Before I leave, I will make sure my current work is up to date and share a handover note with the team. While I am away, Sam Ortiz has agreed to handle my client accounts.

Please let me know if you need anything else from me to process this request. Thank you for your understanding and support.

Sincerely,
Jordan Lee

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Frequently asked questions

What should a leave of absence letter include?

Your request, the first and last days of your leave, a short reason, and how your work will be covered while you are away. Offer to help with the handover and to provide anything else your employer's process asks for.

Do I have to say why I need leave?

A short reason such as a medical matter or a family need is usually enough in the letter, and you can keep private details to yourself. What your employer asks for depends on its own policy, so check with HR if you are unsure.

How far in advance should I ask for leave?

As early as you can, so your manager has time to plan coverage. Your employer's policy may set its own notice period, so check it or ask HR. If the leave is sudden, send the request as soon as you are able.

Does this letter guarantee my leave?

No. The letter is a request. Whether leave is approved, and on what terms, depends on your employer's policy and your situation. Ask HR which rules apply to you before you rely on any dates.

Is anything I type saved or sent?

No. The letter is filled in on this page, in your browser. Nothing you type is sent to Applystead or anyone else, and nothing is saved after you leave the page.