no pay leave application letter

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Unpaid leave of absence letter sample (Samples)

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In this guide we will see some examples of “unpaid leave of absence letter sample”, types of unpaid leave of absence you could ask for and some additional considerations when writing an unpaid leave of absence letter. 

Request for Unpaid Leave 

To make the request for unpaid leave, one may do the following things:

• Know your legal rights about taking unpaid leave
• Make the request in person.
• Give advance notice as much as possible.
• Offer to develop an agreeable plan with your boss for your leave.
• Try to keep in touch with the relevant work

An unpaid leave if absence letter is considered a request letter (formal letter) that you can write as an employee asking your employer for leave of absence from work. In addition, there are multiple reasons why you could consider writing this type of letter, for instance it could be due to personal reasons such as taking care of your health or a family member, loss of a loved one or relief from excessive job stress. 

Being a new employee can make you question yourself on whether you should or shouldn’t ask for unpaid leave or any of the additional types of leave of absence you could be entitled to without even knowing, in fact, in some cases it does not matter if you are new, you could be entitled even to paid leave. 

However, consider that asking for unpaid leave of absence is one of the many options that you could take according to your personal circumstances. Here are additional leave options:

• Parental leave: you can take unpaid parental leave to look after your child’s welfare if you need to spend more time with your children, look at new schools or settle into new childcare arrangements.
• Sick leave or sick pay: if you are sick of you have been to the doctor, and he/she considers you need time off to recover then, you can use this option to stay at home without losing pay. 
• Maternity leave: when you take time off to have a child you might be eligible for statutory maternity leave, statutory maternity pay, paid time off for antenatal care or have extra help from the government (check the rules on when and how to claim your paid leave).
• Pregnancy leave: according to the NHS, all employed women are entitled to 1 year of maternity leave. No matter for how long you have worked for your current employer. 
• Casual leave: refers to asking for leave when there is an urgent or unforeseen matter that requires your attention. Usually it is requested on the same day or a few days in advance.
• Annual leave: this is paid time off work granted to you by your employer to be used however to see fit (e.g. planed holiday). 

“Subject: Unpaid Leave Request

To Whom It May Concern/Dear Mr., Mrs.,

Hereby, I would like to request a 1-month unpaid leave, starting xxxx. I will be returning to my job duties on xxxx. The reason for my extended leave is (reason for unpaid leave).

I have several projects in the pipeline, and since I will be working on them from home, my work will not be affected. If someone needs to contact me from the occide I will try to be available via (phone/email) in case of any query.

Thank you for considering my request. Looking forward to your confirmation.

Yours sincerely,

“Dear RECIPIENT NAME,

This letter is a formal request for an unpaid leave of absence. As discussed earlier, I would like to request an unpaid leave of absence from START DATE to END DATE. 

The reason for this leave of absence is REASON. I hereby request you to consider my request. 

 Please let me know if you have any further questions on my leave of absence or if you need additional information.

Credits to Template.net

Your Address

Your City, postcode

Your Phone Number

Supervisor’s Name

Organization

City, postcode

Dear Mr./Ms. [Last Name]:

This letter is a formal request for a leave of absence, to follow up on our meeting yesterday. As we discussed, I would like to request a leave of absence from April 1, 2019, through June 30, 2019.

I will return to work on July 1, 2019.

Please let me know whether you require any further information or have any questions.

Thank you very much for your consideration in affording me this opportunity for personal leave.

Your Signature (hard copy letter)

Your Typed Name”

“Aug. 8, 20XX

Roberto Diaz

ABC Company, Inc.

1234 E. Main St.

San Diego, CA 92101

Dear Mr. Diaz,

I am writing to request a one-month medical leave of absence beginning Monday, Sept. 10, and ending Wednesday, Oct. 10. I will be having surgery—my surgeon has ordered a minimum three-week recovery period (see doctor’s signed recommendation attached.)

I am happy to assist in handling any necessary preparations before beginning my leave, including training colleagues on upcoming projects. Thank you so much for your understanding.

Dave Smith”

“Feb. 1, 20XX

Deborah Jones

Dear Ms. Jones,

I am submitting this request for a leave of absence to tend to important personal matters beginning next month. If possible, I would like to take my leave beginning March 15 and return to the office on April 3, 20XX.

I can make myself available intermittently to answer questions via phone or email, and am happy to do whatever necessary to ensure a smooth transition before my leave begins.

Thank you for your consideration.

Johanna Jansen”

Company Address

City, Postcode

Dear Mr/Mrs Last Name,

As you are aware, I have been having health problems over the (insert length of time). Although I have tried various treatments, surgery is inevitable. (Details of surgery) will require a lengthy absence from work, so I will have to take the full 12 weeks allowed for injury and sickness.

My doctor has completed the request form which I received from HR. Please find the letter attached to the email. As I understand that my absence will be a hindrance, I am giving you a month’s notice in order for you to find a temporary replacement. My surgery is scheduled for (insert date) meaning that I am able to work until (insert date), to ensure that everything is in order before my departure. 

I anticipate that my return date will be (insert date). While this is just an estimate, I do hope that I can return to work before this time. 

I appreciate your understanding.

Your Signature

Sample 7: (To Care for a Sick Family Member)

As you are aware, my (family member’s name) is having some serious health issues. Although (she/he) has seen a number of different healthcare providers and endured numerous tests, (she/he) needs surgery. (Describe details of surgery). As you understand that this is a very tough time for our family, so I will need the full 12-week sick allowance available to me.

My (family member’s) doctor has completed the request form which I received from HR. Please find the letter attached to the email. As I understand that my absence will be a hindrance, I am giving you a month’s notice in order for you to find a temporary replacement. My (family member’s) surgery is scheduled for (insert date) meaning that I am able to work until (insert date), to ensure that everything is in order before my departure.

I anticipate that my return date will be (insert date). While this is just an estimate, I do hope that I can return to work before this time.

Handwritten signature

With reference to above cited subject, I would like to request a 5-day leave, starting on 18th June 2019. I will be returning to the factory on 23rd June2019 to pick up my duties. The reason for my leave is on 18th June 2019, my sister wedding is arranged.

I will need to be at home to help my family to arrange all family events. So that my family is not overburdened with a hectic workload. I want to spare some time with my sister at last 3 to 4 days.

If someone needs to contact me from the office I will try to be available via phone or email.

Thank you for considering my request.

(Signature)

Swapnil N. Kadu

(Company Details) if needed.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do i write a letter asking for unpaid leave.

To write a letter asking for unpaid leave you could: – Start your letter with the main issue and facts.

– Justify why you need a leave of absence but avoid going into a lot of details.

– Offer any assistance (when possible), leaving your preferred contact method and details.

– Thank your employer (supervisor/boss) for considering the leave.

How do I request a leave of absence?

To request a leave of absence from work you should:

– Understand and know your legal rights regarding time off and payment.

– Always make sure to request the leave of absence in writing and in person (preferably). 

– Give sufficient advance notice so they can reach a decision.

– Discuss with your boss any contingency plans for when you are in your leave.

– Keep track of any assignments or pending important paperwork.

How do I write an absent letter for work?

When writing an absent letter for work remember that the body of your letter should be kept brief and specific, including the reasons of your absence, the dates, duration and (if possible)  add any additional required documentation such as a doctor’s note or ER paperwork. Always use a polite and professional closing statement and then sign it.

What is leave of absence letter?

A leave of absence letter is a formal letter that you can write to your employer when you need to request a leave of absence from work. This letter most likely will be kept in your file or employment records. It is basically, a written record of the notice you are giving your employer, the reasons and the time you need off work. 

What is a good reason for a leave of absence?

There are several good reasons for a leave of absence but your employer is not obligated to recognize or accept all of them. For instance, you may request a leave of absence for personal or family health problems, the birth of a child, getting married, the death of a loved one, relief from job stress/anxiety, the desire to travel or if you are pursuing a hobby. 

References 

Allbusinesstemplates.com 

Doyle, A. (2020, Jan.) Formal Leave of Absence Letter Request Example. Retrieved from Thebalancecareers.com.

Indeed.com 

Zambas, J. (2020, Feb.) How to Write a Leave of Absence Letter (with samples). Retrieved from Careeraddict.com. 

Kadu, S. (2019, Jun.) How do you write a letter requesting unpaid leave?. Retrieved Quora.com. 

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Related posts, tutor resignation letters(5 samples), leave of absence letter for traveling abroad (+5 samples), leave of absence letter for a family wedding (+5 samples).

Unpaid Without Pay Leave Letter

Subject: Request for Unpaid Leave of Absence

Dear [Employer's Name],

I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to formally request an unpaid leave of absence from my position at [Company/Organization Name] for a specific period.

Due to [mention the reason for your leave, e.g., personal reasons/urgent family matters/medical circumstances], I find it necessary to take time off work. The situation requires my full attention and presence, and unfortunately, I am unable to continue my regular duties during this time.

I understand the impact of my absence on the company and my team, and I sincerely apologize for any inconvenience caused. However, I have made arrangements to ensure that my current projects/tasks will be taken care of in my absence. I will gladly assist in any way possible to ensure a smooth transition during my leave period.

I am requesting an unpaid leave of absence for the duration of [mention the start date and end date of your intended leave]. This period represents the minimum time required to address the situation properly and return to work fully focused and committed.

During my absence, I will maintain communication with my team and promptly respond to any work-related queries as needed. If there are any specific procedures or protocols to follow while on leave, please let me know, and I will adhere to them accordingly.

Please consider this letter as an official notice, and I kindly request you to grant my unpaid leave as per the mentioned dates.

Thank you for your understanding and support during this challenging time. I value my position at [Company/Organization Name] and look forward to resuming my responsibilities upon my return. If there is any further information needed from me or any documentation required to process my leave request, please do not hesitate to contact me.

I would be grateful if you could acknowledge receipt of this letter and provide confirmation of my leave approval.

[Your Name]

Unpaid Leave of Absence Letter Sample: Free & Effective

This article provides a detailed guide on writing an unpaid leave of absence letter, complete with personal tips and a template to simplify the process

Key Takeaways

• Understand Your Company’s Leave Policy: Before drafting your letter, familiarize yourself with your employer’s leave policy to align your request accordingly.
• Be Clear and Concise: Communicate your need for leave straightforwardly, mentioning the leave dates clearly.
• Provide a Reason, But Keep It Professional: While it’s important to provide a reason for your leave, maintain professionalism and avoid oversharing.
• Offer a Plan for Your Absence: Show initiative by proposing how your responsibilities can be managed in your absence.
• Be Polite and Express Gratitude: Always express your gratitude for the consideration of your request.

Step-by-Step Guide to Writing Your Unpaid Leave of Absence Letter

Step 1: start with the basics.

Begin your letter by addressing it to the appropriate person, usually your direct supervisor or the HR department. Use a formal salutation such as “Dear [Name],” and ensure you start on a professional note.

Step 2: State the Purpose of Your Letter

In the opening paragraph, clearly state that you are requesting an unpaid leave of absence. It’s crucial to be straightforward to set the right expectations from the outset.

Step 3: Specify the Dates

Clearly mention the start and end dates of your intended leave. Providing exact dates helps in planning and shows that you’ve thought through your request.

Step 4: Explain Your Reason

Briefly explain the reason for your leave. Remember, the goal is to be honest yet professional. You don’t need to go into excessive detail, but providing context can help in the approval process.

Step 5: Discuss Your Plan for Coverage

Trending now: find out why.

Offer suggestions on how your duties can be managed in your absence. Whether it’s delegating tasks to colleagues or completing certain tasks in advance, showing that you’ve considered the impact of your absence demonstrates responsibility.

Step 6: Express Your Willingness to Assist

If possible, mention your willingness to provide support during your leave, whether it’s answering emails or being available for urgent queries. This shows commitment to your role and team.

Step 7: Close with Gratitude

Conclude your letter by thanking your employer for considering your request. A polite and grateful tone can go a long way.

Step 8: Sign Off

End with a formal closing, such as “Sincerely,” followed by your name and contact information.

Unpaid Leave of Absence Letter Template

[Your Name] [Your Address] [City, State, Zip] [Email Address] [Today’s Date]

[Supervisor’s Name] [Company Name] [Company Address] [City, State, Zip]

Dear [Supervisor’s Name],

I am writing to formally request an unpaid leave of absence from [start date] to [end date], due to [brief explanation of the reason for leave]. I understand the importance of planning and am therefore notifying you well in advance to ensure a smooth transition during my absence.

During this period, I suggest [brief description of your plan for coverage, e.g., “handing over my responsibilities to X, or completing Y tasks ahead of schedule”]. I am also willing to provide assistance or answer any queries remotely if necessary.

I appreciate your consideration of my request and am grateful for the opportunity to address my [personal situation/health concerns/educational pursuits]. Thank you for understanding my situation and for your support during this time.

[Your Name] [Your Contact Information]

Personal Tips from Experience

• Timing is Everything: Submit your request as early as possible. This not only shows respect for your employer’s time but also increases the chances of your leave being accommodated.
• Keep It Professional: Even if your reason for leave is personal, maintain a professional tone throughout the letter.
• Follow Up: After submitting your letter, schedule a time to discuss your request in person. This demonstrates your commitment to transparency and smooth operations.

Writing an unpaid leave of absence letter requires a balance of honesty, professionalism, and strategic planning. 

By following the steps outlined above and using the template provided, you can craft a letter that effectively communicates your needs while showing respect for your employer’s operations. 

Remember, each leave request is unique, and it’s important to tailor your letter to reflect your individual circumstances.

I would love to hear your experiences or any tips you might have on this topic. Please feel free to share your thoughts and questions in the comments below.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is an unpaid leave letter? 

Answer : An unpaid leave letter is a formal written request submitted by an employee to their employer or HR department, seeking permission to take time off from work without receiving regular salary or wages. 

The letter outlines the reasons for the requested leave and specifies the dates of the intended absence.

Q: How do I start writing an unpaid leave letter? 

Answer : To start writing an unpaid leave letter, format the letter with your contact information, the date, and the recipient’s details. 

Address the recipient with a professional salutation, introducing the purpose of the letter – which is to request unpaid leave using the phrase “unpaid leave letter.”

Q: What should I include in the reason for taking unpaid leave in my letter? 

Answer : In the reason for taking unpaid leave, provide a clear and concise explanation for why you need the time off. Use the phrase “unpaid leave letter” to indicate the purpose. 

Whether it’s a personal emergency, medical issue, or family event, be transparent and honest while maintaining professionalism.

Q: How do I specify the duration of my unpaid leave in the letter? 

Answer : To specify the duration of your unpaid leave, mention the exact start and end dates using the phrase “unpaid leave letter.” Clearly state the number of days you intend to be absent from work to help your employer or HR department plan accordingly.

Q: Can I mention my plan for managing work during my unpaid leave? 

Answer : Yes, you can mention your plan for managing work during your unpaid leave in the letter. Discuss how you will ensure a smooth transition, delegate tasks if necessary, or provide guidance to colleagues who might cover for you. This demonstrates your commitment to maintaining productivity even during your absence.

Q: Is it important to express gratitude in the unpaid leave letter? 

Answer : Absolutely. Expressing gratitude in your unpaid leave letter is a courteous gesture. Use the phrase “unpaid leave letter” to convey your appreciation for your employer’s consideration and support in granting you the leave, despite it being unpaid.

Q: How should I close my unpaid leave letter? 

Answer : Close your unpaid leave letter with a professional closing such as “Sincerely” or “Best regards,” followed by your full name. This maintains the formal tone of the letter and marks its conclusion.

Q: Can I provide my contact information in the unpaid leave letter? 

Answer : Yes, providing your contact information is important. Reiterate your phone number and email address in the letter, using the phrase “unpaid leave letter.” This allows your employer to reach out to you if they have any questions or need further details.

Q: Should I proofread my unpaid leave letter before sending it? 

Answer : Absolutely. Proofreading your unpaid leave letter is essential to ensure that it’s error-free and professionally written. Look for grammatical errors, typos, and formatting issues to maintain a polished impression.

Q: How should I deliver my unpaid leave letter? 

Answer : Deliver your unpaid leave letter through the appropriate channels, such as email or physical mail, to your employer or HR department. If sending it digitally, consider converting it to a PDF format to preserve formatting. 

Use the phrase “unpaid leave letter” in the subject line or the addressing line to clearly indicate its purpose.

Download this Unpaid Leave of Absence Letter Design in Word, Google Docs, PDF, Apple Pages, Outlook Format. Easily Editable, Printable, Downloadable.

Sometimes, we have priorities that come before our work, even if that means affecting our income. To help you request time off ASAP, use our Free Unpaid Leave of Absence Letter Template. With our sample’s professionally written content and highlighted placeholders, your note will be ready in no time. This template comes fully compatible with Apple Pages, Google Docs, and Microsoft Word.

UNPAID LEAVE OF ABSENCE

Dear [RECIPIENT NAME],

This letter is a formal request for an unpaid leave of absence. As discussed earlier, I would like to request an unpaid leave of absence from [START DATE] to [END DATE]. 

The reason for this leave of absence is [REASON]. I hereby request you to consider my request. 

Please let me know if you have any further questions on my leave of absence or if you need additional information.   Regards,

[YOUR SIGNATURE]

[YOUR NAME]

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Needing time off work happens from time to time, which means you’ll need to write a leave of absence letter request. A well-written letter can increase your chances of being granted a leave of absence and staying on good terms with your supervisor and your team.

If you’re in need of a leave of absence, we’ll go over how to request a leave of absence from work, provide some example leave of absence letters, and some common reasons for needing a leave of absence.

Key Takeaways:

A leave of absence is an extended period of time when you will not be formally working while still maintaining your position at a company.

The formal process for requesting a leave of absence involves sending a letter to your supervisor as well as higher management and getting this request approved. You do this for documentation purposes, as well as to clarify your specific needs in your request.

Leaves of absence are taken for various reasons, including medical needs, birth or adoption of a child, or other urgent personal needs.

How to request a leave of absence from work

Example letters for leave of absence, leave of absence letter template, what is the family and medical leave act, do’s and don’ts for requesting a leave of absence, common reasons to request a leave of absence, leave of absence faqs.

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When requesting a leave of absence from work, be sure you know your company policies and state laws regarding your work absence and then determine how long you are going to be gone. Here is a more detailed list of how to request a leave of absence from work:

Know your company policies and state laws regarding work absences. The first thing you’re going to want to do is check your employee handbook and become familiar with your company’s policies on leaves of absence.

See what the leave benefits are (if there are any). Check whether or not your company will still pay you during this leave and plan accordingly.

Determine the time frame. Your second step is determining how long you will need time off of work.

Keep in mind that you’re going to need to justify each day taken off, and your supervisors are not likely to approve a leave of absence that requests an excessive amount of time off without good reason. If you have a doctor ’s note or other documentation specifying the amount of time you need off, be sure to include that and factor it in.

Meet with your supervisor to discuss your absence. As soon as you determine that you need a leave of absence and the general timeline, meet with your direct supervisor to discuss your request.

Consider your options. After meeting with your supervisor, consider the options you discussed or the available options. You may have the opportunity to temporarily reduce work hours, work from home, or other measures in which you will still be working but with added flexibility for your circumstances .

Create your leave of absence letter. Finally — after considering all of the above steps — you’ll create your formal letter notifying your boss of your leave of absence. Craft this letter for your supervisor and whomever else you are required to notify formally.

Tell your team. After sending your letter, decide with your supervisor how you will inform your colleagues of your absence. You may need to tell them personally, or someone may take care of it for you.

Your letters should be sent after meeting and discussing your absence with your direct supervisor, but prior to discussing this absence with your coworkers. Here are some examples of letters for a leave of absence for different scenarios you may encounter:

Leave of absence email request example

Subject: [Leave of Absence – Megan Gordon] February 19, 2021 Dear Sharon, I’m writing to request a formal leave of absence from work starting next month due to a recent family emergency. I plan to take this leave from March 8, 2023, through April 2, 2023. I plan to return to work on April 5, 2023. As discussed, this is a tentative date based on my current family circumstances. I will update you with adequate notice if I need to create a plan for returning to work at a later date. In preparation for my leave, I am willing to train my colleagues to complete projects in my absence and communicate with my clients. During my leave, I will be available periodically to answer urgent questions through email or cell phone. Thank you for your assistance in this process and your consideration. Regards, Megan Gordon (618)-219-8705 [email protected]

Medical leave of absence request letter example

Subject: [Leave of Absence – Treyvon Moore] June 1, 2021 Dear Ms. King, I am submitting this request for a leave of absence following an upcoming medical procedure on June 26. My doctor requires a recovery period of two weeks, so my leave will begin on June 28 and end on July 9, 2023. I have attached her signed recommendation. As per my doctor’s orders, I will be able to return to work on July 12, 2023. Please let me know if there is anything I can do to assist in covering my workload during my absence. Thank you for your time and understanding. Best regards, Treyvon Moore (919)-231-8124 [email protected]

Leave of absence for personal reasons request letter example

Subject: [Leave of Absence – Elena Forbes] Dear Mr. Gilbert, I am writing to formally request a leave of absence from my position at XYZ Company from August 31 to September 15, 2023. The reason for this leave is due to personal circumstances that require my immediate attention and presence. I am committed to ensuring a smooth transition during my absence and minimizing any disruption to the team’s operations. During my absence, I will ensure that all pending tasks are completed or handed over to a designated colleague. I am confident that my colleagues have the expertise to manage any unexpected situations that may arise in my absence. I am also open to being available for consultation via email or phone to address any urgent matters that may require my input. Thank you for considering my request. I appreciate your understanding and support during this time. Please let me know if there are any specific procedures or forms I need to complete in order to finalize this request. Sincerely, Elena Forbes (123) 456-7890 [email protected]

Here is a template for a leave of absence request that gives an example of how you might format a written letter.

Leave of Absence Written Letter Example

[Your Name] [Your Address] [Your Phone Number] [Other Relevant Contact Information] December 8, 2020 [Your Supervisor’s Name] [Company or Organization] [Company or Organization Address] Dear [Supervisor’s name], This is a formal written request notifying of my intention to take a two-week leave of absence for personal reasons. As discussed in our meeting yesterday, I hope to take this leave from [start date] through [return date] if this is still a timeframe that works for you. I will be able to return to work on [return date]. Please let me know if I can be of any assistance in making preparations for my absence. Don’t hesitate to contact me with any further questions. Thank you for your understanding during this difficult time. Sincerely, [4 lines of blank space for a written signature] [Your name]

The Family and Medical Leave Act is a federal labor law established in 1993. The FMLA’s purpose is to protect employees who have genuine private concerns outside of work that they need to take time off from work. There are several key points to FMLA that you will want to understand when requesting a leave of absence:

Eligibility. The FMLA states that eligible employees must receive an unpaid leave of absence in the event of family reasons (birth, adoption, etc.) or health issues. The FMLA only applies to companies that employ more than 50 individuals, and to employees who have worked at least a year with the company for at least 1,250 hours ( part-time ) over the past year.

What you receive. Note that while companies are not mandated to pay employees who take leaves of absence, these employees’ benefits remain, most importantly their employer-sponsored health insurance. Employees who are approved for a leave of absence under the FMLA must receive the same job they had when they left or a job of similar pay with similar responsibilities.

How many weeks. You can take up to 12 weeks of unpaid time off out of the year under the FMLA. If you need to take a leave of absence to care for a military service member who’s dealing with a serious medical condition, this time frame is extended to 26 weeks. These weeks don’t have to be taken consecutively, and federal holidays don’t count against your total days taken off through the FMLA.

Other state laws. Some states also have laws that are more generous for employees. For example, in California , employees still receive 60-70% of their average earnings while on a family leave of absence. Be sure to look into your state’s guidelines to learn the exact details.

The FMLA is the absolute minimum that companies of this size must follow. Many organizations choose to offer much more generous leave packages, especially for those leaving for parental leave.

When giving your leave of absence letter, you should give plenty of notice and be sure to inform your boss first. Here are some more general rules of thumb when requesting a leave of absence.

DO: Give adequate notice.

DON’T: Wait until the last minute.

Give your supervisors and your team time to plan for your absence by submitting your request as soon as possible.

DO: Communicate with your direct supervisor first.

DON’T: Tell coworkers or clients before your supervisor.

You don’t want your supervisor to feel like you are keeping secrets, as this can erode trust. So be sure to tell her of your plans before you tell others.

DO: Offer gratitude and further assistance.

DON’T: Make the details of your departure unclear.

Try to let your team know explicitly how you can help in preparation for and during your absence. Be helpful to others in whatever capacity you are able, as your absence may increase their workload.

Having a new child, medical reasons, or a death in the family are some of the most common reasons to request a leave of absence. Some more common reasons to request a leave of absence outside of normal PTO include:

New child. Maternity and paternity leave are the most common reasons why employees take extended leaves of absence. Different companies might have different policies, but the FMLA covers the bare minimum requirements for coverage (more on that below).

Medical reasons. When you need to get surgery or treat a condition, you probably won’t be able to continue with your normal occupation for a little while. The FMLA also covers these reasons, including if the medical issue is with a family member that you’re caring for full-time.

Education. Choosing to go back to school is a legitimate reason to request a leave of absence, but it’s best to talk to your supervisor about your goals and get on the same page about how your education will help you do more at work.

Death in the family. Employers won’t always make you take PTO days when you suddenly need to attend a funeral or deal with a death in the family.

Military. People in the Army Reserve should be forthcoming when taking a job, but most employers are happy to have armed service members working for them. These leaves of absence may also be taken for family members who need time off for military reasons.

Jury duty. It can happen to any over the age of 18. When this happens and you are picked to be a part of a jury, depending on the court case, you could be out of work for a couple of weeks. When this happens you need to let your employer know.

What does it mean to take a leave of absence?

A leave of absence is an extended period of time off from work that is due to circumstances not covered by PTO or sick days. A leave of absence is usually longer than what either your PTO or sick days would cover. It is usually the result of out-of-the-ordinary circumstances such as childbirth, death in the family, or medical reasons.

Is a leave of absence better than quitting?

Yes, a leave of absence is better than quitting. If you know you will want to return to your job, or even if you don’t know, but you consider it a possibility, then a leave of absence is a good choice. Quitting your job is final, which will make your professional circumstances much harder down the line.

How do you ask for a leave of absence?

To ask for a leave of absence:

Research your company’s leave of absence policy

Determine your reasons and time frame

Meet with your supervisor

Consider your options

Draft a leave of absence letter

Inform your coworkers

These steps ensure you ask for leave of absence in a professional, thought-out manner.

Can an employer refuse to give you unpaid leave?

Yes, an employer can refuse to give you unpaid leave depending on your reasons and company policy. If your reasons are not covered by FMLA or some other state or Federal law, then it is up to the discretion of your employer to decide what type of unpaid leave is appropriate. That is why it is important for you to look into company policy before you ask for a leave of absence.

What are some reasons for taking a leave of absence from work?

Having a child, caring for a sick family member, or pursuing your education are some common reasons for a leave of absence. Having a medical emergency, a death in the family, and jury duty are other common reasons for needing a leave of absence.

U.S. Department of Labor – Family and Medical Leave Act

Office of Personnel Management – Fact Sheet: Family and Medical Leave

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Roger Raber has been a content writer at Zippia for over a year and has authored several hundred articles. Having retired after 28 years of teaching writing and research at both the high school and college levels, Roger enjoys providing career details that help inform people who are curious about a new job or career. Roger holds a BA in English from Cleveland State University and a MA from Marygrove college.

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• How to Write a Leave Application Letter [+5 Letter Samples]

The need to write a leave application letter could arise for a number of reasons . So your son is ill and you need to stay home to take care of him. Would management even let you go? How do you get this drafted? It’s not like anybody is allowed to just travel right? 

The truth is, at some point during your employment, you may need to request a leave of absence. This could be for a variety of reasons ranging from personal or family health problems, the birth and/or adoption of a child, to rest from excessive job stress. It could also be the loss of a loved one or the pursuit of a hobby or a desire to travel. A leave of absence in your case is not a luxury, but a necessity.

What is a Leave Application Letter? 

A leave application letter is a letter written to apply for a leave of absence from the office for a certain period.

The concept of a leave application centers around a formal way of asking for a break/leave of absence from work for a specified time period.

A person writes leave application letter they’re unable to perform their duties for a stipulated period of time.

Types of Leave Applications 

• Sick Leave  

Sick leave is basically a leave of absence due to an illness. Sick leave is granted under a number of scenarios; for personal physical or mental illness, the care of a sick child, spouse, parent, or parent of a spouse, regular health checks, and/or to address the physical, psychological, and legal effects of domestic abuse. 

At the moment, there are no federal legal requirements for paid sick leave. For companies subject to the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), the Act does require unpaid sick leave. The U.S. government ensures that federal employees get 13 paid sick days a year.

• Study Leave 

Study leave is basically a leave of absence from work granted in order to allow a person time to study or carry out research. In the case of a school pupil, it allows them to study at home, usually in order to prepare for examinations.

According to the labor laws in the US, Study Leave with or without pay is a matter for arrangement entirely between the employer and the employee. By law, the maximum length of study leave granted in the same employer’s service is two years. 

• Sabbatical 

By definition, a Sabbatical leave is a period in which a person does not report to his regular job but who remains employed with that company. Also commonly referred to as ‘career break’ or ‘adult gap year’, It is a period away from work, agreed with your employer.

The truth is, there are no laws that cover taking a career break or sabbatical; as such employees have no statutory right to take leave. A sabbatical will in most cases be an authorized, unpaid leave of absence.

• Maternity/Paternity Leave

Maternity leave is basically a period of absence from work that is granted to a mother before and after the birth of her child. The US government doesn’t guarantee for paid maternity leave, employers may, however, provide paid leave if they choose. If you have worked at a company for at least a year, you are entitled by federal law to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid maternity leave.

Paternity leave is a period of time that the father of a new baby is allowed away from work. Usually, a company provides up to eight weeks of paid paternity leave. When a man takes time off because his partner is having a baby, adopting a child or having a baby through a surrogacy arrangement he might be eligible for: 1 or 2 weeks’ paid paternity leave, paternity pay and/or shared parental leave and pay.

• Vacation/Holiday Request Letter 

Vacation leave is ideally available to all eligible employees for the purpose of rest, relaxation, and to attend to personal affairs. It is strikingly similar to annual leave which is paid time off work granted by employers to employees. Although not stipulated by law, many employers nonetheless offer paid vacation, typically around 10 workdays, to attract employees.

• Emergency Leave Application 

Emergency leave is necessary to cater to unforeseen circumstances such as the death of a loved one/family member. A funeral leave, which is leave of absence with pay, must not exceed three days and can be granted for absence from work. You qualify for an emergency leave if; there is a verified death, a life-threatening condition due to an accident, illness, or major surgery, or to visit a terminally ill person in the immediate family.

5 Top Leave Letter Format

Sick leave letter format.

The Manager,

(Insert company name)

Subject: Leave Application due (Insert illness)

Dear Sir/ma’am,

Respectfully, it is to inform you that I am suffering from (Xyz’s illness). I am an employee of your firm for the past (x years). I recently have been diagnosed with a (insert illness). Due to this sudden illness, it would not be possible for me to make an appearance at the office for a month. 

This critical condition has deteriorated my health a lot. I cannot eat properly and have a really bad body rash. It is impossible for me to concentrate on anything. I can attest to have been a dedicated employee and did not take any additional leave from work ever. 

The employee regularity record would serve as evidence of this claim. I would be able to come back after my complete recovery and serve your firm again with the same vigilant and attentive inclination. I hope you take my plea into consideration and allow me a leave of absence for a month. I shall remain indebted to you for this kindness.

Yours Truly,

(Insert name),

(Insert date)

Study Leave Letter Sample

The Manager (Authority name),

Institute Name…

Institute Address…

Sub: Leave Application for Further Study

Dear Sir/Ma’am,

The Higher Education Commission, (Country name) has recently offered a free six-month study program (Another country name) for the candidates fulfilling the criteria. For government and private servants, it is a prerequisite to get approval from the relevant authority. 

Sir/Ma’am, I fulfill the criteria of this study program. I believe it is a once in a lifetime opportunity for me to fulfill my dream of studying abroad.

I am committed to continuing my services to the department after receiving higher education in (Country name). I shall be indebted to you for approving my leave application for the study program.

Thanking you in anticipation.

Yours faithfully,

Job Designation…

Contact no…

Sabbatical Leave Letter Sample

Dear [Recipient Name],

My name is [insert name] and I have been working in the ICT department for the past decade. I have recently found myself stuck in a loop, doing the same things over and over again. My learning process stopped and I haven’t improved for a while now.

Feeling the need for self-development, I would like to request for an extended leave, sabbatical, in order to continue my studies and earn another degree. 

I am committed to [company name] and I am happy to work here. I am planning to resume my work at [company name] once I earn my degree, by then, I will be more knowledgeable, motivated, experienced, and more committed.

I do believe that this move is beneficial for both me and the organization. I plan to enroll in late September. The program will take no longer than nine months, so I should be back by May. I have briefed the head of the department and he assured me that coverage is available and that workflow will not be affected much.

I kindly ask you to consider my request and I am hopeful that will approve it. Attached to this letter are the program acceptance letter and other related documents for your reference.

Thank you very much.

Best Regards

(Insert name)

Maternity Leave Application Letter

Subject: Application for Maternity Leave

Dear Mr./Mrs. {Recipient’s Name},

I write to inform you of my intention to take the allotted {Number of weeks} of maternity leave available to me. I hope to start my maternity leave on {Starting date} and return to the office by {Tentative joining date}, barring any unforeseen issues regarding my pregnancy and delivery arise.

If my plans change for any reason, I will let you know as soon as possible. A letter from my doctor confirming the relevant details have been attached to this letter.

Please do well to contact me if you need any additional information.

Yours Sincerely,

{Your Name}

Annual Vacation Request Letter  

Subject: Annual Leave Application

Dear Mr./Ms. {Recipient’s Name},

I write to inform you that I will be traveling with my family for a period of one month, between {start date} and {end date}. Due to the fact that my entire quota of annual leave sanctioned by the company is pending, I request you to adjust my leaves accordingly.

Following my earlier discussion with my team lead, I have requested my colleague, Mr./ Ms. {enter name} to take over my project while I am on leave. I have already handed over all material regarding the project to him/ her, and expect there to be no exigencies in my absence.

Due to the nature of my travel plans, I may not be available to take phone calls. I request you to address any urgent work-related matters to my email address {enter email ID}.

I will be grateful for a positive reply to my leave request.

Thanks and regards,

How Employers & HRs Can Receive Leave Application Requests

With online forms, Formplus provides a flexible way to store your received data in the cloud storage of choice. You also have the option to opt-out of storing your data on our servers

With unlimited file uploads , users can submit online forms without any restriction to the size or number of files that can be uploaded, Formplus is a great tool to manage employee data. 

Form analytics and reports also give you an insight into an overview of the data submitted to your form.

 Top Leave Application Template for HR and Employers

• Maternity Leave Application Form 

This online maternity leave application form is for a pregnant employee intending to apply for maternity leave as the delivery period nears. This request will help you plan ahead and help solve challenges that may arrive as a result of an employee leave which might be up to 6 months, depending on the labor laws in your country. 

• Paternity Leave Application 

Form Formplus’ online paternity leave application form allows your employees to apply for paternity leave when expecting a baby. That is if the labor laws grant prospective Fathers paternity leave when expecting a child with their partners.

• Sick Leave Form

This sickness notification form template allows your employees to formally notify you of their illness and unavailability to work. With this form, you can track all sick notifications from employees.

• Travel Request Form 

With the online travel request form template, you can let your prospective customers, employees or ward request for a travel package for business trips, holidays, honeymoons, pilgrimage, etc. This travel request template is perfect for travel agencies, employers and tour consultants.

On the whole, a leave application letter should contain a valid reason for your leave application, which should convince the employer and make him grant you leave. 

If you are having a reasonable enough claim for leave application then your request will not be declined without any justification, particularly, when it is due to some personal reasons, could be an illness, urgent piece of work or for visiting sick parents, etc

Most importantly, the leave application should not sound friendly or casual; rather it must be formal and professionally-written.

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• leave application letter
• leave application sample
• leave application template
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Unpaid Leave Of Absence Letter

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Leave of Absence Approval Letter (Non-FMLA and Non-Military)

[Employee name]

[Street address]

[City, State, Zip Code]

Dear [Employee name]:

On [date], you notified us of your need to take a leave of absence beginning on [beginning date] until [ending date] due to:

• The birth of a child, or the placement of a child with you for adoption or foster care.
• A serious health condition that makes you unable to perform the essential functions of your job.
• A serious health condition affecting your (spouse/child/parent), for which you are needed to provide care.
• Other ___________________________________________________________

At this time, you are not eligible for leave under federal or state leave laws. However, you have met eligibility requirements for an unpaid personal leave of absence.  

Your request for a personal leave of absence from [beginning date] until [ending date] has been approved.

You [will/will not] be required to use any accrued paid leave prior to taking unpaid leave.

[Company Name] will continue to pay its portion of the cost of your benefits, including health, dental, life and disability insurance benefits, while you are on this leave of absence. You must continue to pay your portion of the benefits, which may be made by payroll deductions (when applicable) or by check or money order submitted to the HR department each pay period. [Set forth dates, e.g., the 10th of each month or the pay periods that specifically cover the agreement with the employee.] If you fail to pay your portion of the benefits for more than 30 days, you and your beneficiaries' coverage(s) will be terminated, and you will be offered COBRA to continue benefits, excluding life and disability insurance.

Benefits such as vacation, sick, personal days and holidays will not accrue while you are on a leave of absence.

While on leave, you [will/will not] be required to furnish us with periodic reports every [indicate interval of periodic reports, as appropriate for the particular leave situation] of your status and intent to return to work. If the circumstances of your leave change and you are able to return to work earlier than the date indicated, you [will/will not] be required to notify us at least three work days prior to the date you intend to report to work. 

If you are unable to return by the end of your leave, you must request an extension of the leave, in writing, five days prior to the leave expiration date. If [Company Name] does not extend the leave, you must return to work on the originally scheduled return date or be considered to have voluntarily resigned from your position. Extensions of leave will only be considered on a case-by-case basis.

If you are on a leave of absence due to medical reasons, you must submit a physician's statement releasing you back to work on or prior to your date of return. 

Upon the expiration of the leave, you may be returned to your former position, if available. If the position is not available, you may be offered another available position for which you are qualified. If no position is available when you are able to return to work, you will be terminated and may apply for the next available position. 

Failure to return to work upon the expiration of the leave of absence or refusing an offer of reinstatement for which you are qualified will be considered a voluntary resignation of employment.

If you have any questions, please contact me at [phone number].

[HR Representative's name and signature]

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How to request a leave without pay in letter format.

Leave without pay is a decision that is made by either the employer or the employee in situations in which the employee needs to be away from his work and will not be compensated. Leave without pay is often requested for personal reasons such as an illness in the family. Certain leaves without pay, such as maternity leave, are governed by law; however, other types of leaves are at the employer's discretion.

Review your employer’s policy and procedure on leave without pay. Employee handbooks often contain information about the types of situations in which leave without pay is granted. Some employers also require forms to be completed in lieu of a letter. If there are no forms or official policies the request for leave should be put in letter format.

Identify yourself and the current position you hold. In large companies, it is important to give a brief description of your employment because the person reviewing your request may not know you. Include information such as when you started with the company and what your rate of pay is.

Explain why you are requesting the leave without pay. The employer needs to know exactly why you believe you are unable to function in your position for a period of time. If the reason is extremely personal you can tell the employer that you do not feel comfortable explaining the details, but that you have an extremely sensitive and personal matter to attend to. If your request is based on a medical condition, you have medical privacy rights that prohibit the employer from requesting detailed information about your condition.

Write the exact duration of time you are requesting unpaid leave. If you are not positive about your return date, you should still request a specific duration and then note that you will reexamine your ability to work at that time.

• Draft the letter in a respectful and courteous tone. In many instances your employer is not required to grant you leave without pay so it is important to ask in a professional and humble manner.
• If the leave without pay is requested for a medical reason or due to illness in the family, employers are required to grant leave without pay due to the Family Medical Leave Act. However, it is important to check with an attorney or the U.S. Department of Labor prior to the request because some employers are exempt from the regulations.

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• Clarion University: Leave without Pay
• U.S. Department of Labor: Family Medical Leave Act

Scott Simpson began writing professionally in 2000. He writes employee handbooks and manuals for the human resource consulting firm, Remote Control Payroll Co. Simpson holds a Bachelor of Science in airline management as well as a Master of Arts in business administration from the University of Massachusetts.

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How To Request a Leave of Absence From Work

What Is a Leave of Absence?

• Before You Ask for a Leave

How To Request a Leave of Absence

Check your eligibility before you request leave, explore options for taking a leave.

• The Best Way to Ask for a Leave
• Letter Samples Requesting a Leave

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

At some point, you may need to request a leave of absence from work. It could be for one of many reasons: personal or family health problems, the birth or adoption of a child, relief from excessive job stress, the loss of a loved one, the desire to travel or pursue a hobby, or another reason.

Key Takeaways

• Employers are required by law to provide leave for some reasons. Other leave benefits are covered by company policy or an informal agreement between an employee and an employer.
• Check your employer’s leave policies prior to applying so you know what you’re entitled to and how to request a leave.
• When you request a leave of absence, include the reasons for your request and clarify anything you're willing or able to do to help with the transition.
• Give your employer as much notice as you can to make scheduling coverage for your absence easier.

What’s a leave of absence, and how does it impact your employment? A leave of absence is an extended period of time off from your job.

Depending on the organization, you may simply be able to ask for time off from work. Or there may be a formal process you need to follow to get approved for a leave of absence. In most cases, a leave of absence is an agreement between an employee and an employer. Depending on the type of leave of absence you take, your benefits may, or may not, continue.

Other than for leaves covered by the Family and Medical Leave Act  (FMLA), military duty, jury duty, and some other particular circumstances, federal law does not require your employer to approve your request, nor are they required to provide paid personal leave.

Some cities and states have laws that provide for paid sick or family leave from work. Your employer may provide paid or unpaid leaves of absence to employees under certain circumstances.

Check with your manager, human resources department, or state department of labor for guidelines in your location.

Before You Ask for a Leave From Work

Regardless of why you're asking for a leave of absence, it's important to approach the request properly so you can get the leave approved and maintain your good standing at work:

Casual Workplace

Requesting and obtaining a leave of absence when you work in a casual environment can be as simple as saying to your boss, "I need a leave of absence. Would it be possible to take a leave from work for two months?"

Formal Workplace

In more formal workplaces, you may need to frame your request per company policy. The company may have guidelines for who is eligible for a leave of absence, and when and how often one can be taken.

Know Company Policy

Before submitting a request, be sure to familiarize yourself with your company's policies. You should also have a well-practiced explanation on hand. Make a decision before broaching the topic about what your next move will be if your request is turned down.

Below are some tips for requesting a leave of absence, with examples of letters you can use to get ideas for your own correspondence.

Research your organization's policy regarding leaves of absence and determine whether your situation is addressed under the policy. Here are some things to keep in mind:

• The Family and Medical Leave Act requires employers to provide employees with time off (without pay) for serious family and personal medical conditions requiring care, for the birth or adoption of a child or the placement of a child into foster care with the employee, and for emergencies arising from a family member’s active military duty.
• Some states and local municipalities have legislation that provides for paid sick or family leave.
• Employees are also entitled to a  leave of absence for jury duty  or if they're called into active military duty.
• Employers are not, however, required to give you a leave of absence simply because you want one.

Before you request a leave, consider how flexible you can be if your employer isn't able to give you the time you requested.

If a partial leave will enable you to meet your goals, explore the feasibility of reducing your hours.  In some cases, a partial leave is preferable for all involved. A part-time proposal may be more acceptable to your employer, and you will maintain some cash flow.

Consider a temporary work-from-home arrangement rather than a full leave.  For example, if you need to care for a sick family member, telecommuting might be ideal. Or perhaps you can work from home for four days a week and come in one day for a weekly check-in or for meetings. Have a variety of alternatives in mind that you can share if your employer is open to considering other options.

Plan your next steps prior to submitting your request.  If your employer says no to your leave of absence, will you continue with your job, or will you need to leave permanently? The next steps will vary significantly depending on your reasons for the leave, and if you're filing the request out of want or out of need. Either way, you should have some idea in mind as to how you'll respond if your request is denied.

Plan your finances prior to filing your request.  Make sure you can pay your bills without the normal cash flow from your job. You will usually be able to withdraw a request for a leave for financial reasons, but you should avoid the embarrassment if possible.

Explore the implications to your benefits.  If you're taking a leave for reasons covered by the FMLA, your employer will be obligated to continue providing health care coverage. However, you will still be responsible for the same employee contribution to the premium that you paid prior to your leave. For other leaves, your employee benefits may not continue while you’re away from work.

The Best Way to Ask for a Leave From Work

Start the leave of absence process with your immediate supervisor.  You don't want your direct supervisor to hear the news from HR or upper management first. Additionally, don't mention your desire to take a leave of absence to co-workers until you clear it with your manager.

Word can spread fast in an office, and for the best response, you should talk to your immediate supervisor before broaching the topic with anyone else.

Outline your request in writing so your supervisor can digest your request before a formal discussion.  You can submit your request via email prior to your in-person meeting. Be sure to include the reasons for your request, and clarify anything you're willing or able to do to ease the transition, including training your replacement, writing a procedure manual, and fielding questions while you're gone.

Schedule a meeting when your boss is the least stressed or overworked. If you ask for a leave of absence when your boss is feeling overwhelmed, he or she may refuse you right away. On a day when things barely seem to be running with all hands on deck, a leave request won’t find a receptive audience. Be tactful and patient. Yes, it’s important to provide as much lead time as possible, but you should also be strategic when presenting your request.

Give your employer as much time as possible prior to your leave.  Advance notice will make it easier for your employer to fill the void left by your departure and make them more likely to accept your request.

Indicate an end date, if possible, so your supervisor has the comfort of knowing when you'll return.  Your request will likely go over much better if you can provide some idea as to when you'll return. Even if you can't provide an exact date, it's still better to give your employer a general timeframe for how long you expect to be gone.

Don't provide any ultimatums with your initial request.  Let your employer feel that they're in control and can allow you to take the leave out of goodwill. If necessary, you can invoke any legal protection later on with the assistance of your HR department, but legality should not come up in your first request.

Letter Samples Requesting a Leave of Absence From a Job

Below is a leave of absence example letter that includes a written request for a leave of absence from work for personal reasons. The letter offers to answer questions while the employee is on leave and provides a date for returning to work.

You can use this letter sample as a model, download the template  (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online), and review more examples below.

The Balance

Leave of Absence Request Sample (Text Version)

George Jenkins 1245 James Avenue Pocatello, ID 83201 (000) 123-1234 gjenkins@email.com

October 10, 2022

Ms. Janice Smith Supervisor ABC Company 9876 Industry Avenue Pocatello, ID 83201

Dear Ms. Smith:

I would like to request a thirty-day leave of absence for personal reasons. If possible, I would like to leave work on November 1 and return on December 1.

If approved, I will be traveling during this time period, but I would be glad to assist with any questions via email or phone.

Thank you very much for your consideration.

Signature (hard copy letter)

George Jenkins

Medical Leave of Absence Request Letter Example

Subject: Medical Leave Request - Jonas Hemmingway

Dear Mr. Smith:

I would like to request a leave of absence for medical reasons. I will be having hernia surgery on September 1 and expect to return to work approximately three weeks later.

I can provide written documentation from the surgeon, if necessary.

Jonas Hemmingway

Do employees continue to get employee benefits while on leave?

If an employee with employer-provided health insurance is on leave that is covered by the Family and Medical Leave Act, they can continue group health insurance coverage on the same terms as they had continued to work. Continuation of other benefits depends on company policy and state law.

Are employees paid during a leave of absence from work?

Whether you are paid while on leave depends on the company you work for and state law. Some employers provide paid leave as an employee benefit. Federal law does not require employers to pay employees for time not worked.  Some states and localities mandate paid family, sick, parental, and school leave.

U.S. Department of Labor. " Leave Benefits ."

U.S. Department of Labor. " Family and Medical Leave Act ."

National Conference of State Legislatures. " State Family and Medical Leave Laws ."

Department of Labor. " Leave Benefits ."

U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. " Leave Policy Tips ."

U.S. Department of Labor. " Fact Sheet #28A: Employee Protections under the Family and Medical Leave Act ."

U.S. Department of Labor. " Personal Leave ."

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12 Leave Letters For Work (With Examples)

When you need time away from work for any reason, you will need to provide your employer with a formal leave letter. A leave letter informs your employer of your absence from work and provides details of your expected return. Depending on your particular situation, you may need to write an annual leave letter, a maternity leave letter, a paternity leave letter, a sick leave letter, or a study leave letter. Whatever your reasons for needing time away from work, it is important to know how to write a leave letter that is professional, clear, and concise. In this article, we will provide you with templates and examples of different kinds of leave letters to help you get started.

Leave letter for being unwell

Dear [Name of manager],

I am writing to inform you that I am unwell and will need to take a day off from work. I am feeling very weak and have been experiencing mild fever and body ache. I am not in a position to come to work today, and I apologize for the inconvenience this may cause.

I am taking the necessary precautions as suggested by my doctor and will be back to work in full health as soon as possible.

[Optional] I have also requested my doctor to provide a sick note for the same, which I will submit to you as soon as I receive it.

Thank you for your understanding.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

Leave letter for a family event

I am writing to request a day off from work on [date]. I am planning to use this day to attend a family event that has been planned for some time. It is very important to me to take part in this event and I am confident that I am able to make up the hours missed by working additional hours over the next week.

I am aware of the workload that needs to be completed and I am confident that my absence will not negatively affect the progress of our projects.

[Optional] I am also aware that I must provide proof of the event, and so I am including a copy of the invitation.

Thank you for considering my request. I am looking forward to hearing from you.

Leave letter for a doctor’s appointment

I am writing to request a day off from work on [date]. I have scheduled a doctor’s appointment for a medical issue that I have been having for some time. It’s necessary that I now visit the doctor to have it looked at.

I am confident that I can make up the hours missed by working additional hours over the next week. I am also aware of the workload that needs to be completed and I am confident that my absence will not negatively affect the progress of our projects.

Letter Letter for attending a volunteer event

I am writing to request a day off from work on [date]. I am planning to use this day to take part in a [volunteer event]. I feel it is important to give back to the community and I believe that this event will be a great opportunity to do so.

Leave letter for a surgery

Dear [Name of Manager],

I am writing to inform you that I am requesting a leave of absence from work for the next two weeks. I am having surgery for a medical condition and need to take the necessary time to recover.

I am hoping to return to work by [date]. Thank you for your understanding, and I apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. Sincerely, [Your Name]

Leave letter for a family trip

Dear [Name of Manager], I am writing to inform you that I am requesting a leave of absence from work for the next two weeks. I am going on a family trip to [location] and need to attend. I will to return to work by [date].

Thank you for your understanding, and I apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.

Leave letter to complete a professional course

I am writing to inform you that I am requesting a leave of absence from work for the next two weeks. I am taking a course to further my professional development and need to attend the classes. I am hoping to return to work by [date].

Thank you for your understanding, and I apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. I am confident that the course will help me do better at my role once I’m back.

Leave letter for a vacation

I am writing to inform you that I am requesting a leave of absence from work for the next two weeks. I am taking a much needed vacation and need to take the time to relax and rejuvenate.

I will return to work by [date]. Thank you for your understanding, and I apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. Sincerely, [Your Name]

Leave letter for the death of a relative

I am writing to inform you that I am requesting a leave of absence from work for the next two weeks. I am attending a funeral for a relative and need to travel out of town to attend.

I am hoping to return to work by [date]. Thank you for your understanding, and I apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.

Leave letter for visiting a government office

I am writing to inform you that I will need to take a day off from work on [date] in order to visit a government office. The purpose of my visit is to [explain details of why you need to visit the government office]. I understand that this leave is short notice and apologize for any inconvenience.

I will try to be available on phone while I’m away.

Thank you for your understanding and support.

Leave letter for maternity leave

I am writing to inform you that I will be taking maternity leave from [start date] to [end date].

I have been with the company for [length of time] and I am excited to start this new chapter of my life as a mother. I am grateful to be able to take this time off to spend with my new baby and family. I am confident that I will be able to return to work on [end date] and I am committed to providing the same high quality of work that I always have.

My team will be in good hands while I am away and I will be available to answer any questions via email or telephone. I am looking forward to coming back to work and continuing to contribute to the success of the company.

Sincerely, [Your name]

Leave letter for paternity leave

I am writing to inform you of my intention to take paternity leave from [start date] to [end date].

I am expecting a child and am looking forward to welcoming my new addition to the family. I am grateful for the paternity leave policy that the company offers, and I am taking advantage of it to spend time with my family.

I am confident that all of my work will be completed before I leave, and I will remain available to answer any questions that may arise. I am happy to provide more information or provide assistance with any tasks that may be needed while I’m away.

Leave letter for the death of a pet

I am writing to inform you that I will be taking a few days of leave from work to grieve the death of my pet, [name of pet]. I was very attached to [name of pet], and I need some time to process and come to terms with her passing.

I hope you can understand the importance of this time for me and that you can grant me this leave.

Leave letter to take care of a sick family member

Dear [name of manager],

I am writing to inform you that I need to take a leave of absence from work in order to take care of my [relation]. My [relation] has recently been diagnosed with [illness], and I need to take some time away from work to provide them with care and support.

I understand that this may cause some disruption for the team, and I apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. I am hoping to return to work by [date].

However, this may be subject to change depending on the situation. I will keep you updated on any changes and provide any information that you may need. Thank you for your understanding.

Unpaid Leave Letter

People Who Read This Also Read:

University of Washington Human Resources

Hr operations, leave of absence without pay.

Last updated: September 22, 2023

This page applies to all staff . Academic personnel may find leave without pay information on the Office of Academic Personnel’s website .

“Leave of absence without pay” describes an unpaid leave of absence that may be approved for the following reasons:

• Educational leave
• Leave for government service in public interest
• Volunteer or community service
• Union project activities in accordance with a collective bargaining agreement
• Other personal, non-medical reasons that may be approved at your department’s discretion

While this webpage covers personal, non-medical leaves of absence, information on other leaves of absence may be found:

• Disability leave
• Parental leave
• Leave related to domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking
• Leave designated as FMLA
• Military leave

Requesting leave of absence without pay

To request an educational, government service or a personal leave of absence without pay, submit a written request to your manager. Your request must identify the reason and duration of the requested leave.

Requests for these leaves of absence without pay also require approval by the appropriate associate administrator, vice president, or dean and will only be approved if your manager is reasonably certain that your position will still be available when you return from leave. Approval/disapproval determinations will be made based on coverage considerations, which may include, but are not limited to, anticipated FTE needs, use of contract labor, staff already out on leave, departmental use of overtime, and whether the employee is in good standing.

After you have received leadership approval, employees whose leave is managed in Workday will request the appropriate type of unpaid leave of absence (LOA) in Workday. For medical center employees, contact your leave specialist.

Accounting for your absence with time off

You must deplete your accrued time off before taking unpaid time off during a leave of absence without pay. However, the specific terms and conditions under which you may take unpaid time off versus paid time off are defined your employment program or collective bargaining agreement.

Best Personal Loans for Quick Funding

Lightstream personal loan, avant personal loan, best egg personal loan, lendingpoint personal loan, rocket loans personal loan, upstart personal loan, opploans personal loan.

• Why You Should Trust Us

The Best Fast Personal Loans for Quick Cash in May 2024

Affiliate links for the products on this page are from partners that compensate us (see our advertiser disclosure with our list of partners for more details). However, our opinions are our own. See how we rate personal loans to write unbiased product reviews.

Not every personal loan has funding available the same or next business day for quick cash, but some lenders offer this option. The best personal loans for quick access to cash can get you money as soon as the same day.

• LightStream Personal Loan : Best for low interest rates
• Avant Personal Loan : Best for fair credit
• Best Egg Personal Loan : Best for short-term loans
• LendingPoint Personal Loan : Best for poor credit
• Rocket Loans Personal Loan : Best for fast and easy application
• Upstart Personal Loan : Best for limited credit history
• OppLoans Personal Loan : Best for no fees

Compare the Top Personal Loans for Quick Funding

The best quick personal loan for you will get you funds as soon as the same day, with an easy application process and minimal fees. We chose the top picks for good and bad credit, for limited credit history, short term lengths, and more. You should also look at lenders' interest rates before deciding on a loan.

0.50% discount on regular rates with AutoPay

6.99% to 25.49% (with AutoPay discount, rates vary by loan purpose)

$5,000 to $100,000

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Competitive APR
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Approval decisions should come shortly after applying
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Loans can be funded the same day
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Wide range of borrowing amounts and terms
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. No fees
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Only available to people with good credit
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. No pre-approval option

LightStream offers some of the lowest rates on personal loans out there, provided you have a great credit score. The lender also has loans of up to $100,000 and can supply you with funding on the same day you apply and are approved.

• Loan amounts range from $5,000 to $100,000
• Loan term lengths range from 2 to 12 years
• Apply online and you'll receive a response shortly during business hours.
• Receive your funds as soon as the same day
• Loans are made by Truist Bank, member FDIC

LightStream personal loans are a solid choice for both relatively low interest rates and same-day funding. This lender topped Personal Finance Insider's list of best personal loans  in 2022, and quick funding is yet another bonus.  

However, this lender won't be a good option for anyone with a poor credit score or little credit history. LightStream requires that applicants have a minimum credit score of 660.

For anyone who does qualify for a personal loan with LightStream, this is the most affordable option for fast cash. If your loan is verified and signed before 2:30 p.m. ET, same-day funding is available.

LightStream Personal Loan Review

Offers emergency, home improvement, and debt consolidation loans

9.95% to 35.99%

$2,000 to $35,000

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Funds generally deposited by the next business day
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. No prepayment penalty
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Multiple types of fees
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. High maximum APR
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Low maximum loan limit

Avant Personal Loan is a good personal loan provider, especially if you have a lower credit score and need to receive your loan money quickly. Just be prepared to pay a high APR if you do have a low score.

• Loan amounts range from $2,000 to $35,000
• Loan term lengths range between 2 to 5 years
• Administration fee of up to 4.75%, which will be deducted from your loan proceeds when the loan is funded, and late fee that varies by state
• Loans made by WebBank, member FDIC

Avant personal loans are the best fast-funding personal loan option for anyone with fair credit. This lender also made Personal Finance Insider's list of  best personal loans  of 2022. Avant doesn't have the lowest available starting APRs available, but the typical Avant borrower has a credit score between 600 and 700. This company will consider scores lower than what others will, and can provide funding the next business day if the loan is approved by 4:30 p.m. CT on a weekday. 

However, it's worth noting that this lender charges up to 4.75% in administration fees with an undisclosed late fee and returned payment fee. While it could be an option for anyone needing quick funding with fair credit, borrowers with better credit could find lower rates elsewhere.

Avant Personal Loan Review

8.99% to 35.99%

$2,000 to $50,000

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Fast access to funds
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. High customer satisfaction
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Origination fees
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Unavailable in a few states and DC
• Loan term lengths range between 3 to 5 years
• You may get your money by the next business day after your loan is reviewed and approved
• Loans made by Best Egg's lending partners
• Unavailable if you live in Iowa, Vermont, West Virginia, the District of Columbia, or U.S. Territories

Best Egg is a good choice for short loan terms and fast funding. Its minimum loan term is 36 months, while the maximum term is 60 months. Best Egg loans can be repaid at any time without an early payment penalty.

About half of Best Egg's customers get money the next day after a successful verification process, but it may take one to three business days to see money deposited in your account.

Best Egg Personal Loan Review

Offers debt consolidation loans. Low minimum credit score requirement.

7.99% - 35.99%

$2,000 to $36,500

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Low minimum credit score required
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. No prepayment penalties
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Restrictive loan amount range
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. No loans in Nevada or West Virginia

LendingPoint is a solid option if you need to get a loan with bad credit or you don't qualify for a loan with another lender. However, the range of loan amounts is more limited than what other lenders offer, and if you have good credit, you can likely get a better rate elsewhere.

• Loan amount range $2,000 to $36,500
• Loan term lengths range from 24 to 60 months
• Loans made by FinWise Bank, member FDIC

LendingPoint is great for borrowers with poor credit, as its minimum credit score requirement is only 580. However, LendingPoint doesn't offer joint or cosigned loans, meaning you won't be able to enlist a cosigner to get a lower rate. 

The application process is fast with LendingPoint, and the company may approve you for a loan the same day you apply. You often get your funds the next business day after approval.  

LendingPoint Personal Loan Review

9.116% to 29.99% with AutoPay

$2,000 to $45,000

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Competitive minimum APR
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Same-day funding available
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Not available in all states
• Unavailable in Iowa, Nevada, and West Virginia

Rocket Loans is one of the only lenders on our list to offer same-day funding, but it comes with a lot of fees. You'll pay when your loan is funded, which will be deducted from your overall loan proceeds. Additionally, you'll pay a $15 fee for any payments not made within 10 days of the due date and a $15 fee for a returned check. 

Rocket Loans also has a quick application process, and you can complete it within several minutes. 

Rocket Personal Loans Review

You can prepay your loan at any time with no fee or penalty

6.40% - 35.99% fixed

$1,000 to $50,000 (borrowers in four states are subject to higher minimum loan amounts: Massachusetts: $7,000, Ohio: $6,000, New Mexico: $5,100, Georgia: $3,100)

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Small minimum loan amounts
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Quick loan fund disbursement
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Only three and five year terms
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Potential for high origination fees

Upstart could be the right lender if you have a strong work and education history, but you have a low credit score or limited credit history. The best personal loan for you depends on your credit score, which will determine what you qualify for and can lower your rate.

• Loan amounts range from $1,000 to $50,000. However, borrowers in four states are subject to higher minimum loan amounts: Massachusetts: $7,000, Ohio: $6,000, New Mexico: $5,100, Georgia: $3,100
• Loan term lengths are either 3 or 5 years
• Can have origination fees up to 8%
• Considers employment and education history when making loan approval decisions
• Loans are made through one of several Upstart-powered bank partners

Upstart is a good option for quick funding if your credit score is between 600 and 660. However, the lender includes other pieces of information in its approval decisions — such as where you went to school and your area of study — making it good for borrowers who may not qualify for a loan solely based on their credit score alone. Upstart offers only three-year and five-year loans. While the platform has no prepayment penalties, there's less flexibility in terms than for loans offered by other lenders. Next-business-day funding is available as long as the personal loan is accepted by 5 p.m. ET. 

Upstart Personal Loans Review

$500 to $4,000

Undisclosed

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. OppLoans doesn't charge an origination fee, late fee, or prepayment penalty. 
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Depending on when your loan is approved, you can get your money as soon as the next business day. 
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Many other personal loan companies and financial institutions will turn away people with poor credit, but OppLoans offers options for those who have bad credit standing.
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. OppLoans' APR range is substantially higher than most other personal loan companies.
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. You'll only be able to take out a loan for up to $4,000, though the highest amount of money you're qualified to borrow depends on your state, creditworthiness, income, and ability to repay.
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. OppLoans is only available in 35 states and Washington, DC. If you don't live in one of those states, you won't be able to take out a loan with the company.

OppLoans is good for borrowers with poor credit because there is no minimum credit score required to qualify, which is different from other personal loan companies.

Additionally, you won't pay any fees with an OppLoans loan, including an origination fee , late fee, or prepayment penalty. Other lenders on our list charge fees. 

Which Quick Loan Lender Is the Most Trustworthy?

The Better Business Bureau, a non-profit organization focused on consumer protection and trust, evaluates businesses using factors like their responsiveness to consumer complaints, honesty in advertising, and clarity about business practices. Here is each company's score:

All of our three top picks are rated B+ or higher by the BBB. Keep in mind that a top-notch BBB score does not ensure a positive relationship with a lender. You should keep doing research and talking to others who have used the company to get the most information possible. 

Alternatives to Personal Loans for Quick Cash

It's worth noting that if you have an emergency fund or cash savings , dipping into those resources is a better option than borrowing. If you need to borrow money in an emergency , there are a few other avenues to explore. 

Payday alternative loans from a credit union

Not to be confused with traditional payday loans , payday alternative loans are offered by many different credit unions and work with all types of borrowers. Only available to members, these loans are good for anyone needing a small loan, and who can repay it quickly.

According to the National Credit Union Administration , payday alternative loans typically range from $200 to $1,000 and have terms between one and six months. Check with your credit union to see if this option is available, and what interest rates and borrowing amounts are available.

Loans from friends or family

While loans from family or friends aren't to be taken or made lightly, it could be an option for anyone needing cash quicker than a bank could send it. 

If you plan to make or ask for this type of loan, one financial planner recommends putting loan terms and repayment plans in writing, and paying interest if possible.

A 0% interest credit card

If you happen to have (or can open) a 0% interest credit card that's still within the intro APR term, it could be a useful option for spending. However, you'll need to repay the balance before the 0% term expires. Most cards have between nine and 21 months of interest-free borrowing.

See our full ratings methodology for personal loans » 

How Do I Choose the Best Fast Cash Loans for Me?

To find the best fast loan for you, consider the factors that are most important to you. Many borrowers prioritize the speediest funding time, but also take into account the lowest personal loan interest rate , any fees, the minimum credit score needed, and the accessibility of the lender's customer service. You'll also want to make sure you're able to select a term length that works for you and that your loan's purpose is allowed by the lender you choose.

Guides like this one will help you compare multiple lenders in the same place to weigh their pros and cons. Make sure to also read individual reviews of any lenders you're considering. 

In some cases lenders will charge higher interest rates or fees for the convenience of quick cash, so you might save money if you waited longer for your money. However, if you have an excellent credit score , you could very well be offered the same interest rate for quick loans as you would for loans that take a longer time to fund.

Personal loans are some of the most simple and fast loans you can get. While three-to-five business days is a more common timeframe to expect, it's possible to get a same-day loan or next-day loan with some lenders. However, there are variables that could affect the funding speed, such as how quickly your bank processes the proceeds and makes them available in your account.

While you won't get your money "instantly," in some cases you can apply for a personal loan, be approved, and and have access to the cash very quickly. With fully online application and funding processes, some lenders can provide same-day loans if you qualify.

Some online lenders can approve you for a personal loan and deposit the funds into your bank account on the same day, if you complete the application and it's processed by a certain time of day. LightStream and Rocket Loans are two examples.

Why You Should Trust Us: Our Experts' on Choosing the Best Fast Loans

We consulted personal loan and financial experts to give their insights into finding the best quick cash loans for your needs.

• Markia Brown, certified financial education instructor and registered financial associate at Money Plug, LLC
• Ryan Wangman, former loans reporter at Personal Finance Insider

Our Experts' Advice on Choosing the Best Fast Personal Loan How do borrowers decide on their repayment terms?

Markia Brown:

"Repayment options are important when considering a lender for a loan because some lenders may charge you a fee if you repay your loan early. When you pay your loan off early, it means you pay the lender less in interest. They charge this prepayment penalty to get some of that money anyway. This fee varies by lender and loan type, so keep this in mind when shopping for a lender."

Ryan Wangman:

"Repayment terms can be crucial in determining the overall cost of your loan. One of the biggest things to watch out for are origination fees. Origination fees are taken out of the total proceeds of your loan and reduce the overall amount of money you receive."

What makes the best personal loan?

Markia Brown: 

"The best personal loans meet your financial needs without exceeding your budget. They have the lowest interest rate and fees, flexible repayment options, and the money is available quickly."

"Especially when it comes to fast funding, the best personal loans will get you your cash quickly without saddling you with an overwhelming amount of fees. You'll also want a lender that has minimum credit score requirements that fit your financial situation."

Why Trust Our Recommendations?

At Personal Finance Insider, we strive to help smart people make the best decisions with their money. We spent hours comparing and contrasting the features and fine print of dozens of personal loans so you don't have to.

We understand that "best" is often subjective, however, so in addition to highlighting the pros of a lender's personal loan, we outline the cons, too.

Methodology

We rate all personal loan products in our reviews and guides on a 1-5 scale. The overall rating is a weighted average that takes into account seven different categories, some of which are judged more heavily than others. They are:

• Interest rate (20% of rating)
• Fees (20% of rating)
• Term lengths and loan amounts (15% of rating)
• Funding speed (15% of rating)
• Borrower accessibility (15% of rating)
• Customer support (7.5% of rating)
• Ethics (7.5% of rating)

Each category's weighting is based on its importance to your borrowing experience. Rates and fees have the most direct impact on the overall cost of your loan, so we weigh those the most heavily. Customer support and ethics are still very important parts of the borrowing experience, but do not directly tie to a personal loan's terms, so they have less of an impact on the overall rating. 

OneMain Financial Personal Loan disclosure: Not all applicants will be approved. Loan approval and actual loan terms depend on your ability to meet our credit standards (including a responsible credit history, sufficient income after monthly expenses, and availability of collateral) and your state of residence. If approved, not all applicants will qualify for larger loan amounts or most favorable loan terms. Larger loan amounts require a first lien on a motor vehicle no more than ten years old, that meets our value requirements, titled in your name with valid insurance. APRs are generally higher on loans not secured by a vehicle. Highly-qualified applicants may be offered higher loan amounts and/or lower APRs than those shown above. OneMain charges origination fees where allowed by law. Depending on the state where you open your loan, the origination fee may be either a flat amount or a percentage of your loan amount. Flat fee amounts vary by state, ranging from $25 to $500. Percentage-based fees vary by state ranging from 1% to 10% of your loan amount subject to certain state limits on the fee amount. Visit  omf.com/loanfees  for more information. Loan proceeds cannot be used for postsecondary educational expenses as defined by the CFPB's Regulation Z such as college, university or vocational expense; for any business or commercial purpose; to purchase cryptocurrency assets, securities, derivatives or other speculative investments; or for gambling or illegal purposes. Borrowers in these states are subject to these minimum loan sizes: Alabama: $2,100. California: $3,000. Georgia: $3,100. North Dakota: $2,000. Ohio: $2,000. Virginia: $2,600. Borrowers in these states are subject to these maximum loan sizes: North Carolina: $9,000 for unsecured loans to all customers, $9,000 for secured loans to present customers. Maine: $7,000. Mississippi: $15,000. West Virginia: $14,000. Loans to purchase a motor vehicle or powersports equipment from select Maine, Mississippi, and North Carolina dealerships are not subject to these maximum loan sizes. Example Loan: A $6,000 loan with a 24.99% APR that is repayable in 60 monthly installments would have monthly payments of $176.07. Time to Fund Loans: Funding within one hour after closing through SpeedFunds must be disbursed to a bank-issued debit card. Disbursement by check or ACH may take up to 1-2 business days after loan closing.

Editorial Note: Any opinions, analyses, reviews, or recommendations expressed in this article are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any card issuer. Read our editorial standards .

Please note: While the offers mentioned above are accurate at the time of publication, they're subject to change at any time and may have changed, or may no longer be available.

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Personal Finance Insider offers tools and calculators to help you make smart decisions with your money. We do not give investment advice or encourage you to buy or sell stocks or other financial products. What you decide to do with your money is up to you. If you take action based on one of the recommendations listed in the calculator, we get a small share of the revenue from our commerce partners.

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