What should we include in a bereavement leave policy?

Bereavement leave typically allows employees to take time off to grieve, make arrangements, or attend services following the death of a loved one. If you offer bereavement leave, we recommend having a policy that sets clear expectations and processes for requesting, approving, and using leave.

Here are some things to include:

• Who is eligible. Indicate which employees are covered and when they have access to this leave (e.g., after 90 days of employment).
• Which relationships are eligible for bereavement leave, such as partner, child, parent, sibling, grandparent, in-law, or anyone close to the employee. The list doesn’t need to be narrow. Some employers also allow leave to be taken for pregnancy loss, failed adoption, and pet loss.
• How much time off is provided. Specify the number of days or weeks an employee can take as part of bereavement leave and indicate whether the leave is paid or unpaid. If unpaid, note whether employees can use other paid leave during that time.
• How to request leave. Explain when and to whom a request should be made, how to make a request outside of business hours, and what documentation, if any, you require.
• State or local leave laws. If your location has bereavement leave requirements, be sure to account for them in your policy.

If you require more specific guidance tailored to your situation, we recommend reaching out directly to Pro Advisor Support. Their team can provide expert assistance and help address any questions.

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Clergy Financial Resources serves as a resource for clients to help analyze the complexity of clergy tax law, church payroll & HR issues. Our professionals are committed to helping clients stay informed about tax news, developments and trends in various specialty areas.

This article is intended to provide readers with guidance in tax matters. The article does not constitute, and should not be treated as professional advice regarding the use of any particular tax technique. Every effort has been made to assure the accuracy of the information. Clergy Financial Resources and the author do not assume responsibility for any individual’s reliance upon the information provided in the article. Readers should independently verify all information before applying it to a particular fact situation, and should independently determine the impact of any particular tax planning technique. If you are seeking legal advice, you are encouraged to consult an attorney.

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Clergy Financial Resources
11214 86th Avenue N.
Maple Grove, MN 55369

Tel: (888) 421-0101
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