[sands34]

Is there a law that tells when the is the latest you need to tell your employer of your adoption and LOA request ? Can business' enact their own rule ?
For many reasons, it is best we ask for time off as late as possible.
Thank you.

[joepegcamp]

From my understanding of the Family Leave Act, there is no time limit to the notification. If you were pregnant and went into labor at 26 weeks, your employer could not demand that you give three weeks notice before you actually had the baby. If your parent suddenly fell ill and you had to become the main caretaker, your employer can't expect forewarning.

From what my HR friends told me, the same standard applies to adoption. It's nice to be as specific as possible, but in some cases, that's just not possible.

It drives employers nuts, but there's nothing we can do about it.

I bet there are some lawyers on this board who could give more specifics.

[MNStarr]

My work can be very hectic. I told my boss right away that I was adopting but that it would be a while and I would give him periodic updates as far as when I would need time off. We had a months notice on our visit trip and as soon we were out of PGN I told him it could be very soon. I'm not sure of the legality of it all though. Hope your able to make it work.

[sands34]

thanks all.
we are wanting to pass a certain work deadline before we even mention it.
So the latest the notice the better. Do you have to give 30 day notice or longer ?
thanks

[PintoBean]

I just gave mine today! It is over 30 days notice for the LOA, but just 1 week for working as I have been saving all of my vacation! But my boss and my co-workers have know for over 2 years that this is my plan.



Sonja

[guatparents2be]

As an employer, I would encourage you to be as forthright as possible. The FMLA requires that the employer give you leave, but as an employer if my employee can give me as much warning as possible I can get the business set up so I'm not behind the 8-ball.

I know some businesses make it impossible to do this, but I can tell you it is very much appreciated.

Funny, one of my staff gave notice (quitting) a week before I got out of PGN and when I found out we were out, I asked her to stay longer so I didn't have to hire someone new right before I go away on MY leave. We have a good relationship so with a little financial incentive she was happy to stay on a little longer.

[Sarahsmom818]

You should check with your HR department. I know all the info I needed was online for my company. They ask for a 2 week notice if possible for FMLA unless it is an emergency situation. I was asked to just complete the application and leave the dates blank with the explanation of International Adoption listed.
Sherry

[Sarahsmom818]

You should check with your HR department. I know all the info I needed was online for my company. They ask for a 2 week notice if possible for FMLA unless it is an emergency situation. I was asked to just complete the application and leave the dates blank with the explanation of International Adoption listed.
If your company offers adoption assistance you may want to be as forth coming as possible so you don't mess up your reimbursement.
Sherry

[snugs1974]

I would also check and make sure you qualify for FMLA. I don't, even though our company has nearly 2000 people, because of the relative islolation of my office. Each company has it's own policy-everyone and their brother knows we are adopting, and my plan for 6 weeks off, so it shouldn't be any surprise when I actually "apply" for leave. Good luck!

[Wonk]

Pretty much everyone is covered under the FMLA. The law is attached if you want to see what the federal government actually says and to make sure what your company is doing is legal.


U.S. Department of Labor: Compliance Assistance: Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)