Can a company enforce unpaid leave?

As an employer, you must provide your member of staff with adequate notice. You can enforce paid annual leave. But you can’t enforce unpaid leave, that’s unless you want to lay off staff. So, forced unpaid leave isn’t possible—employees don’t have to agree with your request.

How do I ask for extended time off work?

Provide enough information regarding the challenge you’re facing so the reality of your needs is clear, but don’t say more than you are comfortable with. Convey your commitment to the organization in the long term, and explain how granting a leave will make your future with the company possible.

How do I ask for medical leave?

How to Ask for Medical Leave

1. Know what type of leave you’re asking for and what your rights are.
2. Determine the length of leave time.
3. Write a letter requesting a leave of absence.
4. Meet face-to-face with your supervisor.
5. Go through benefits and paperwork with a human resource member.

Is unpaid leave considered employment?

Unpaid leave doesn’t provide wages to the employee during their time away, but it does ensure employment continuity, which can be important especially regarding certain employer-paid benefits such as accrued vacation time or health insurance coverage.

Can an employer deny unpaid time off?

Under California laws, your vacation time is considered wages that are earned for labor you perform. Just as your employer cannot deny you wages you have earned, your employer cannot deny you your vacation time once you have earned it.

Can employer ask why you need time off?

No federal law prohibits employers from asking employees why they are out sick. They are free to ask questions such as when you expect to return to work. They may also require you to furnish proof of your illness, such as a note from a physician.