Losing a close loved one is a life-altering experience. Regardless of the circumstances surrounding a loved one’s death, the emotional and practical toll of such loss can be overwhelming. Therefore, (and very understandably) many workers wonder if they are entitled to bereavement leave from work to grieve and attend to related matters.
Unlike some states that have specific laws requiring employers to provide bereavement leave, Florida does not have a state law mandating this type of leave. However, this does not mean employees are without options. Generally speaking, whether bereavement leave is available to a grieving worker depends on their employer’s internal policies.
Options that may be available
Even though doing so is not required by law, many Florida companies choose to offer bereavement leave as part of their employment benefits packages. This leave typically allows employees to take a few days off with pay to grieve the loss of a close family member, such as a spouse, child, parent or sibling. The specifics of a worker’s bereavement leave opportunity – such as the number of days offered and which relatives qualify – vary by employer. If an employer fails to honor bereavement terms outlined in an employment contract, they may potentially be held accountable for this misconduct.
If you are grieving the loss of a loved one and your employer does not offer bereavement leave, or if the leave that you’ve been provided is insufficient, you may have other options. Many employees choose to use accrued paid time off (PTO), vacation days or sick leave to cover time off needed for bereavement. Some employers may also allow the use of unpaid leave or offer flexible scheduling arrangements to help workers more effectively manage their responsibilities and emotional strain in the wake of great loss.
If you need bereavement leave
If you need bereavement leave, start by reviewing your employer’s policies and speaking with your manager or HR representative. Be honest and upfront about your situation, and ask what options are available. If your employer does not provide bereavement leave, discuss using other types of leave or flexible scheduling to accommodate your needs. If you have questions about your rights or feel your employer is not accommodating your needs, consulting with a skilled legal team can allow you to make informed decisions about your rights and options.