Paid Sick Leave

A Paid Sick Leave policy explains who can earn and use paid sick time, what reasons are covered (including an employee's or family member's health needs and certain safety or public health situations), and the rules for accrual or front-loading, notice and documentation, carryover, payout, and anti-retaliation protections, tailored to the specific requirements of each state or local jurisdiction.

How to Write a Paid Sick Leave Policy

• Start with "why" and introduce the concept.
• Define who is covered by the policy.
• Explain how paid sick leave is earned or provided.
• List the covered reasons employees can use paid sick leave.
• Define who counts as a family member for caregiving and safety-related leave.
• Describe how employees request paid sick leave and what notice is expected.
• Explain when documentation may be requested and how confidentiality is handled.
• Describe how paid sick leave is used and how it will be paid.
• Explain annual limits, carryover, and any balance caps.
• State whether unused paid sick leave is paid out, and what happens at separation and rehire.
• Include a non-retaliation and non-interference commitment.

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