How to apply for Sick Leave

When you are unwell or need time off due to medical reasons, it's essential to apply for sick leave properly. Below is a detailed step-by-step guide to help you request sick leave professionally and ensure approval.

 How to Apply for Sick Leave  

Step 1: Review Your Company’s Sick Leave Policy 

📌 Before applying for leave, check your company’s sick leave policy. 

• Look in the employee handbook or HR portal. 
• Check the number of sick days allowed and any conditions. 
• Understand if a medical certificate is required. 
• Find out how leave should be requested (email, HR system, written form). 

📌 Important: Some companies have a minimum notice period before taking leave, except for emergencies. 

Step 2: Inform Your Manager or Supervisor 

📌 Notify your boss as soon as possible, especially if your absence will affect work. 

• If it’s an emergency, call or text immediately. 
• For planned medical leave, inform them in advance. 
• Example of Message: 
  "Good morning [Manager’s Name], I am feeling unwell today and will not be able to come to work. I would like to request sick leave for [X] days. Please let me know if any formal procedure is required. Thank you." 

📌 If necessary, provide a backup plan for your work responsibilities.  

Step 3: Write a Formal Sick Leave Application 

📌 Your application should be clear, polite, and professional. 

• Include the date and reason for leave. 
• Mention the number of days required. 
• Attach a medical certificate if needed. 

📌 Sick Leave Application Format: 

Subject: Sick Leave Request for [Your Name] – [Dates] 

Dear [Manager’s Name], 

I am writing to formally request sick leave from [Start Date] to [End Date] as I am experiencing [brief reason, e.g., severe flu symptoms]. I have consulted a doctor and have been advised to rest for [X] days. 

I will ensure that any urgent tasks are delegated before my absence. If required, I am happy to provide a medical certificate. Please let me know if any further information is needed. Thank you for your understanding. 

Best Regards, 
[Your Name] 
[Your Position] 

📌 If applying via a company portal: 

• Log in and navigate to the Leave Request Section. 
• Select Sick Leave and enter details. 
• Upload any supporting documents. 
• Submit the request. 

 Step 4: Submit Medical Documentation (If Required) 

📌 Some companies require a doctor’s note if you take more than 2-3 days of sick leave. 

• Visit a doctor and get a medical certificate. 
• Ensure it includes your diagnosis, doctor's recommendation, and duration of rest. 
• Attach it to your sick leave request or submit it to HR. 

 Step 5: Follow Up on Approval 

📌 After submitting your application: 

• Wait for approval from your manager or HR. 
• Follow up if you do not receive a response within the expected time. 
• If rejected, ask about alternative options (e.g., using vacation leave). 

 Step 6: Update Your Team & Handover Work 

📌 Before going on leave: 

• Delegate urgent tasks to a colleague. 

• Set up an out-of-office email response (if applicable). 

📌 Example Out-of-Office Email: 

"Hello, I am currently on sick leave from [Start Date] to [End Date] and will not be available. For urgent matters, please contact [Colleague’s Name] at [email/phone]. Thank you for your patience."  

Step 7: Notify When You Return to Work 

📌 Once you recover and return: 

• Inform your manager that you are back. 
• Submit any additional required medical documents. 
• Catch up on missed work and emails. 

 Conclusion 

Following these steps ensures a smooth sick leave request process while maintaining professionalism. 

A short-term sick leave approval is a medical document from a doctor verifying an employee’s temporary inability to work due to illness or injury. It is typically required by employers for paid or unpaid leave and may include the expected recovery period.