Flexible Leave

Flexible Leave policies can mean a couple things, depending on your workplace and your location.

• In some places, it is a legal right to use accrued, paid leave to care for an ill family member and or for bereavement.
• In other workplaces, it is about flexibility in when you work (flex time, alternate schedules), sometimes paired with more flexible use of existing paid time off.

A good policy makes it clear what flexibility you offer, who can use it, and how to request it.

What a Flexible Leave policy covers

Most Flexible Leave policies answer:

• What's covered (family caregiving, bereavement, flex time, schedule changes)
• Who's eligible
• Which family relationships count (if family caregiving or bereavement is included)
• How to request it (notice, approval, documentation, where to go)

How to Write a Flexible Leave Policy

• Start with "why" and introduce the concept, purpose, etc.
• Say what "Flexible Leave" means here.
• List what it can be used for.
• Define "family" if needed.
• Explain the basic rules (notice, approval, documentation).
• Tell employees how to request it.

For advice on writing a Flexible Leave policy in a specific jurisdiction, see below.