How Do You Ask for Longer Sick Time?

Unforeseen circumstances often require you to take time off work. This can be anything from a family emergency to a natural disaster in your area.

One of the most common reasons for taking leave is due to illness, and this form of leave is typically called “sick leave.” Sick leave is generally requested for a small period, such as a day or two.

However, sometimes a day or two is not enough. If you find yourself needing weeks to recover, you may need to request extended sick leave. In this article, we’ll look more closely at what is involved in requesting longer sick leave.

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What Is Sick Leave?

Sick leave is when an employee takes off from work due to illness, injury, or other health-related issues.

An employee will request from the employer time off work, often at short notice, as they are too sick to work. It can be paid time off or unpaid, depending on the circumstances.

Usually, sick leave will be granted for smaller periods, such as a day or two, without too much bureaucracy.

Employees typically ask for a sick day in a message, by phone, or by email, and should be repeated every day after that for the duration of the absence.

When and How to Ask for Extended Sick Leave?

As an employee, if your illness or injury lasts longer than the number of sick days you are given, you will have to seek extended sick leave.

Common reasons for taking sick leave include injuries, surgery, ongoing mental health issues, or a medical condition requiring a more extended period off from work.

If you need to request extended sick leave, read the terms of your contract carefully to know your legal rights and those of your employer. 

You must prove that your illness or injury has been assessed by a medical professional, who then provides a medical note to justify the need for extended absence.

Your boss, manager, or human resources department will also need to know the duration of the absence in advance. This medical note and absence request will likely need to be provided in writing.

Employees have a legal right to ask for extended sick leave if they have a valid reason, and employers must consider the request fairly and reasonably.

In some cases, employers might provide alternative options for an employee, such as flexible working conditions. They will also refer to the contract to ascertain whether or not employees are entitled to payment during all or any of their absences.

Rights and Obligations

Employers must ensure workers have a safe and healthy working environment, including granting employees sick leave. Still, they are within their rights to ask for verification from a medical professional.

Employees must follow company procedures related to sick leave requests, including having all documentation. Failure to comply or prolonging professional verification could lead to ill leave being denied.

Furthermore, it is courteous and professional to request sick leave ahead of time so that your employer can prepare accordingly.

Wrapping Up

When you need to focus on your health, navigating time off with your employer can feel overwhelming. If you are prepared, have the professional documentation you need, and communicate frequently with your employer, things get a lot easier.

We recommend always being professional and carefully checking your contract before starting the process. We hope this helps and get better soon!

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Title: How Do You Ask for Longer Sick Time?

Category: Career Resources

Co-Author: Becky is a contributor for theJub. She’s a writing and talent acquisition specialist who loves to apply her skills through creative writing and editing.