What Is Bereavement Leave?

Bereavement leave is time off granted to employees following the death of a family member, close relative, or loved one. It allows employees to grieve, manage funeral arrangements, and attend to personal and legal responsibilities.

Bereavement Leave vs. Compassionate Leave

While the terms are often used interchangeably, compassionate leave may also cover time off for serious illness or emergencies involving a loved one. Bereavement leave is specifically tied to death-related events.

Is Bereavement Leave Legally Required?

• U.S. Federal Law: No federal mandate exists.
• Certain U.S. States (e.g., California, Illinois, Oregon, Maryland, Washington) require employers to offer unpaid or paid bereavement leave.
• Outside the U.S.: Some countries (like the UK) provide minimal unpaid bereavement entitlements, with special provisions for parental bereavement.

Employers should comply with local and state laws and consider creating a supportive policy regardless of legal requirements.

Is Bereavement Leave Paid or Unpaid?

Bereavement leave is not always paid, but many companies offer 3 to 5 days of paid time off, especially for immediate family losses.

Offering paid leave can:

• Improve employee well-being and morale
• Encourage loyalty and retention
• Demonstrate company empathy and culture

What Does a Bereavement Leave Policy Typically Include?

A thoughtful policy should outline:

• Number of Days Off
  • Often 3–5 days for immediate family
  • Optional: fewer days for extended family or friends
    
• Eligible Relationships
  • Immediate family (spouse, parent, child, sibling)
  • Extended family, close friends, or pets (optional)
    
• Documentation Requirements
  • Some employers may request an obituary or funeral notice
    
• Use of Other Leave Types
  • Clarify if PTO, sick days, or unpaid leave can be added
    
• Flexible Scheduling
  • May allow leave to be used non-consecutively over a set time (e.g., 6–12 months)
    
• Eligibility by Role
  • Confirm if part-time, hourly, or contract workers are eligible

How Employees Can Request Bereavement Leave

Employees should:

1. Review the company’s bereavement policy
2. Notify their manager and HR in writing or through the proper internal system
3. Provide any required documentation
4. Communicate any handover needs or coverage plans if necessary

Support Beyond Leave

Employers can also provide:

• Counseling or EAP services
• Flexible return-to-work arrangements
  Grief support groups or internal resources

Bereavement leave is more than a legal or procedural matter, it's a compassionate tool that allows employees to navigate one of life’s most difficult moments with dignity and support. A clear, flexible, and empathetic policy can make a lasting impact on employee trust and well-being.