29 Jul Requesting FMLA Time To Care for Loved One With Autism

Requesting time off under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) for reasons related to autism involves understanding your rights and following the proper procedures. Here’s a guide to help you through the process:

Understanding FMLA

The FMLA entitles eligible employees of covered employers to take unpaid, job-protected leave for specified family and medical reasons. For autism-related matters, you might be eligible for FMLA leave if:

• You need to care for your own serious health condition, which may include mental health conditions like autism.
• You need to care for a family member (spouse, child, or parent) with a serious health condition.

Steps to Request FMLA Leave

1. Check Eligibility:
   • You must work for a covered employer (private sector employers with 50 or more employees, public agencies, and public/private elementary and secondary schools).
   • You must have worked for the employer for at least 12 months and at least 1,250 hours over the past 12 months.
2. Understand Your Rights:
   • You are entitled to up to 12 workweeks of unpaid leave in a 12-month period.
   • Your job is protected, meaning you should return to the same or an equivalent position after your leave.
3. Notify Your Employer:
   • Provide your employer with 30 days’ notice if the leave is foreseeable. If it is not foreseeable, notify them as soon as possible.
   • Clearly state that the leave is requested for an FMLA-qualifying reason.
4. Provide Required Documentation:
   • Your employer may require certification from a healthcare provider to verify the need for leave. This can include information about your own condition or your family member’s condition and the need for you to provide care.
5. Complete FMLA Forms:
   • Obtain and fill out the FMLA forms provided by your employer. These forms will typically include an employee request for FMLA leave and a medical certification form.
   • Ensure the healthcare provider completes their portion accurately and thoroughly.
6. Submit Forms:
   • Return the completed forms to your employer as per their policy, typically to the HR department.
7. Communicate with Your Employer:
   • Stay in communication with your employer during your leave to provide any necessary updates or additional documentation.
   • Discuss any accommodations or flexible work arrangements that may help you return to work smoothly.

Additional Considerations

• Intermittent Leave: You may take FMLA leave intermittently or on a reduced leave schedule if medically necessary. This can be beneficial if you need to manage ongoing treatments or care responsibilities.
• Employer Policies: Familiarize yourself with any specific policies your employer may have regarding FMLA leave. They may have additional resources or support available.

Example of a Request Letter

Here’s a sample letter you can use to request FMLA leave for autism-related reasons:

[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]

[Employer’s Name]
[Employer’s Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]

Dear [Employer’s Name],

I am writing to formally request leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). I am eligible for FMLA leave and would like to request time off due to [my own serious health condition related to autism/caring for my child with autism].

I anticipate that I will need leave starting on [start date] and expect to be away from work until [end date]. Attached is the medical certification from [healthcare provider’s name] that supports the need for my leave.

I will ensure that I remain in communication with the company to provide updates and any additional required documentation. I appreciate your understanding and support during this time.

Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Remember to tailor the letter to your specific situation and provide all necessary information to your employer.

Feel free to ask if you need further details or assistance with anything else.