Is it required to tell manager why you are taking a leave?

4 Comments

1. Paulla Fetzek, MSEdJune 11,2024 at 1:02PM UTC

   Hi Eunice!

   Depends on the leave.

   If you're talking just PTO - If you believe there's a benefit to disclosing why you wish to take leave, then you can. By law, however, you don't have to reveal the reasons you wish to be away from work.

   The same would apply to sick leave. You can just say "I'm sick and can't work." If you're contagious and you've been around coworkers, you may want to note that should they want to get checked out.

   If you're talking FMLA, you'll need to say why. Because your employer will need to verify that FMLA will cover your time off.

   I have a very good relationship with my boss as I've worked with him the entire 20+ years I've been here. We talk openly about our physical issues (we both deal with several things). It's been beneficial as he knows my history and therefore understands any new treatments, etc I'm pursuing.

2. Cassie SpencerJune 11,2024 at 1:36PM UTC

   Paulla has provided some good insight here. It does depend on the type of leave. Different companies may also have protocols in place where doctors notes or other documentation may be required. I would suggest looking into the HR policies and gathering any information you can about the different leave options that you have to hep you determine if and what information needs to be shared.

3. SophJune 11,2024 at 3:31PM UTC

   No, not PTO

4. AnonymousJune 11,2024 at 4:43PM UTC

   I agree that it depends on the leave. At my company we have several "lifers" who have been with us over 25 years and have tons of PTO. Anything over 2 weeks at a time and special approval has to be given. We can't have everyone save all their time until November then want to take the whole time between Halloween and Christmas off.

   If it is FMLA, as listed below, HR will need to know but your direct supervisor/manager will not.