{"id":1747,"date":"2023-12-12T10:22:42","date_gmt":"2023-12-12T10:22:42","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/clockify.me\/learn\/?p=1747"},"modified":"2026-06-17T00:00:00","modified_gmt":"2026-06-17T00:00:00","slug":"bereavement-leave","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/clockify.me\/learn\/de\/business-management\/bereavement-leave\/","title":{"rendered":"Bereavement Leave Laws by State \u2014 2026 Employer &amp; Employee Guide"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">Under US federal law, employers are <strong>not<\/strong> required to offer bereavement leave. However, depending on your state, you might be eligible for paid or unpaid leave for bereavement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">We\u2019ll go over bereavement leave laws in different US states and guide you on how to ask for bereavement leave.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list key-takeaways\">\n<li class=\"translation-block\">Bereavement leave is a type of time-off policy used by employers to grant leave following a family member\u2019s death.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"translation-block\">The Fair Labor Standards Act doesn\u2019t require US employers to provide bereavement leave.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"translation-block\">6 states currently mandate bereavement leave \u2014 California, Illinois, Maryland, Oregon, Vermont, and Washington. Only Washington offers fully paid bereavement leave as a separate paid leave.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"translation-block\">Colorado and Minnesota don\u2019t have standalone bereavement leave laws, but allow employees to use accrued paid sick leave for bereavement.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"translation-block\">Clockify lets you create different time-off policies, including a bereavement leave policy, and provides a simple way to track employee time off.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"what-is-bereavement-leave\" class=\"wp-block-heading translation-block\">What is bereavement leave?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Bereavement leave is time off granted to an employee after the death of a family member or loved one.<\/strong> It\u2019s also referred to as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.dol.gov\/general\/topic\/benefits-leave\/funeral-leave\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">funeral leave<\/a> or bereaved leave.&nbsp;Employees use bereavement leave to attend the funeral, handle personal and legal matters related to the death, and grieve.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"custom-btn translation-block wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/app.clockify.me\/en\/signup\" type=\"link\" id=\"https:\/\/app.clockify.me\/en\/signup\">Track bereavement leave in Clockify<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">Whether bereavement leave is available (and whether it\u2019s paid or unpaid) depends on 3 factors:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"translation-block\">Federal law<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"translation-block\">State where the employee works<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"translation-block\">Employer\u2019s own policy<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"federal-vs-state-bereavement-leave-law\" class=\"wp-block-heading translation-block\">Federal vs. state bereavement leave law<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">US federal law doesn\u2019t mandate bereavement leave. In other words, the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.dol.gov\/agencies\/whd\/flsa\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA)<\/a> and the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.dol.gov\/agencies\/whd\/fmla\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)<\/a> don\u2019t require employers to provide this type of leave. In fact, the FMLA covers only miscarriage and stillbirth as qualifying bereavement events. So, there\u2019s no federal bereavement leave law.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">What employees are entitled to depends on their state and their employer. At the state level, 6 states now require employers to provide bereavement leave (see the state-by-state section below). In all other US states, bereavement leave is at the employer\u2019s discretion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">As many as 90% of US employers offer some form of paid bereavement leave, even when it\u2019s not legally required, according to the <a href=\"https:\/\/blog.ifebp.org\/from-parental-to-bereavement-the-latest-paid-leave-policy-trends\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">If you\u2019re building a bereavement leave policy from scratch, <a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/help\/track-time-and-expenses\/create-manage-time-off-policy#create-time-off-policy\">Clockify makes it easy to set up and manage<\/a>. You can define your policy terms, configure time-off types, and let employees submit requests directly through the platform.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-video aligncenter\"><video height=\"510\" style=\"aspect-ratio: 1200 \/ 510;\" width=\"1200\" autoplay loop muted src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Creating-a-bereavement-leave-policy-in-Clockify.mp4\" playsinline><\/video><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Creating a bereavement leave policy in Clockify<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group pro-tip\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">\ud83d\udca1 <strong>CLOCKIFY PRO TIP<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">Compliance with various state laws in the US can be challenging. For more information on relevant laws, here\u2019s a guide on labor laws across the country:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"translation-block\"><a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/state-labor-laws\/\">State Labor Laws Guides<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"is-bereavement-leave-paid\" class=\"wp-block-heading translation-block\">Is bereavement leave paid?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">Under federal law, bereavement leave doesn\u2019t have to be paid. Even in states that mandate bereavement leave, most state laws allow the leave to be unpaid.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">Whether an employee receives pay during bereavement leave depends on:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"translation-block\">The employer\u2019s bereavement leave policy<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"translation-block\">Whether the employee has accrued paid time off they can use<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"translation-block\">The state they work in (e.g., Washington requires paid bereavement leave)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"which-states-require-paid-bereavement-leave\" class=\"wp-block-heading translation-block\">Which states require paid bereavement leave?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">Only Washington state mandates paid bereavement leave.&nbsp;California, Illinois, Oregon, and Vermont require employers to allow bereavement leave but don\u2019t require it to be paid.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">Maryland requires the use of accrued paid leave \u2014 vacation, sick, or compensatory time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">Colorado and Minnesota require paid sick leave to be available for bereavement purposes.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">\n<div class=\"banner banner-dark clockify-gradient-landing-3\">\n    <div class=\"banner-text lg:pr-[6rem]\">\n        <h2 class=\"translation-block text-2xl !mb-4\">Time Off Tracker<\/h2>\n        <p class=\"translation-block !text-sm\">Manage employee leaves, holidays, and balances and define your own set of time-off policies with Clockify by CAKE.com.<\/p>\n\n        <div class=\"banner-buttons d-flex space-x-4 translation-block\">\n            <a class=\"rounded-md px-6 py-2 bg-white\" href=\"https:\/\/app.clockify.me\/en\/signup\" target=\"_blank\">Sign up<\/a>\n\n                            <a class=\"button-2\" href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/leave-pto-vacation-tracker\" target=\"_blank\">Learn more<\/a>\n                    <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"banner-image banner-image-bottom \">\n        <picture>\n            <source srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/learn\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-learn\/src\/images\/clockify\/banners\/landing-3@2x.png 2x\" alt=\"Illustration\"  media=\"(min-width: 1022px)\" \/>\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/learn\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-learn\/src\/images\/clockify\/banners\/landing-3.png\"  alt=\"Illustration\" \/>\n        <\/picture>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n    <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"which-family-members-qualify-for-bereavement-leave\" class=\"wp-block-heading translation-block\">Which family members qualify for bereavement leave?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">Who counts as a qualifying family member for bereavement leave depends on state law and company policy. The table below shows how coverage typically breaks down.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th><strong>Family member<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>Typical coverage<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Spouse or domestic partner<\/td><td>Covered universally by all 6 state laws (California, Illinois, Maryland, Oregon, Vermont, Washington) and most employer policies<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Child (biological, adopted, foster, step)<\/td><td>Covered universally<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Parent or stepparent<\/td><td>Covered universally<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Sibling<\/td><td>Covered by most state laws and employer policies<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Grandparent<\/td><td>Covered by most state laws; varies by employer where no law exists<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Grandchild<\/td><td>Covered by most state laws<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Parent-in-law<\/td><td>Covered by California, Illinois, and Washington; employer discretion elsewhere<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Grandparent-in-law<\/td><td>Employer discretion; not covered by most state laws<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Aunt, uncle, cousin<\/td><td>Employer discretion; generally not covered by state laws<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Friend or pet<\/td><td>Employer discretion only; not covered by any state law<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\"><br><strong>Does bereavement leave cover grandparents?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">Yes, most states with mandatory bereavement leave laws cover grandparents. California, Illinois, Oregon, Vermont, and Washington all include grandparents as qualifying family members. In states without a bereavement leave law, coverage depends on the employer\u2019s policy.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>How many bereavement days do you get for a grandparent?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">The number of bereavement days for a grandparent depends on the state and the employer. For instance, in California, employees can take up to 5 days, while in Oregon, up to 2 weeks. Employers without a state mandate typically offer 1\u20133 days for extended family members.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Do aunts and uncles count for bereavement?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">No state law includes aunts and uncles as qualifying family members. Whether an employer covers them depends on company policy.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Does bereavement cover a spouse\u2019s grandparents?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">Most state laws don\u2019t explicitly cover in-law grandparents, and most employers don\u2019t either \u2014 but some do. Check your company\u2019s policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Do cousins count for bereavement?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">No state law covers cousins for bereavement leave. Coverage is entirely at the employer\u2019s discretion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"how-long-is-bereavement-leave\" class=\"wp-block-heading translation-block\">How long is bereavement leave?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">The length of bereavement leave depends on the state and the employer\u2019s policy. A common employer baseline is 3 paid days for immediate family members and 1 day for extended family. State laws set their own minimums:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"translation-block\">California \u2014 up to 5 days<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"translation-block\">Illinois \u2014 up to 10 workdays<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"translation-block\">Oregon \u2014 up to 2 weeks<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"translation-block\">Vermont \u2014 up to 2 weeks or 10 workdays (no more than 5 consecutive workdays)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"translation-block\">Washington \u2014 up to 5 days (up to 7 days for the death of a child)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"582\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/How-long-is-bereavement-leave-1024x582.webp\" alt=\"How long is bereavement leave\" class=\"wp-image-6038\" srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/How-long-is-bereavement-leave-1024x582.webp 1024w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/How-long-is-bereavement-leave-300x171.webp 300w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/How-long-is-bereavement-leave-768x436.webp 768w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/How-long-is-bereavement-leave-18x10.webp 18w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/How-long-is-bereavement-leave.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">* Maryland doesn\u2019t have a set minimum for bereavement leave \u2014 employees can use their accrued and earned leave amount.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Why do many employers offer only 3 days of bereavement?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">The 3-day standard comes from longstanding employer practice, not any federal law. It predates most state laws and remains common because it covers the immediate period between a death and a funeral. Some employers offer more, especially for the loss of a child or spouse. If 3 days aren\u2019t enough, employees can typically use accrued PTO.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group pro-tip\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">\ud83d\udca1 <strong>CLOCKIFY PRO TIP<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">In the US, timekeeping rules are established by the US Department of Labor (DOL) and the Defense Contract Audit Agency (DCAA). Learn more about it here:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"translation-block\"><a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/learn\/resources\/timekeeping-laws-compliance\/\">Compliance With Timekeeping Laws Using Clockify<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">Certified grief counselor and founder of Timely Presence, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/kelly-edmondson\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Kelly Edmondson<\/a>, sadly had to learn that <em>\u201chow long a person grieves is determined by company policy, not the magnitude of their loss.\u201d<\/em> After experiencing a tragic loss, her own work support was vastly different from that of her husband:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group pro-blockquote\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-8f761849 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Kelly-Edmondson.webp\" alt=\"Kelly Edmondson - Certified grief counselor and founder of Timely Presence\" class=\"wp-image-6060\" srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Kelly-Edmondson.webp 800w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Kelly-Edmondson-300x300.webp 300w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Kelly-Edmondson-150x150.webp 150w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Kelly-Edmondson-768x768.webp 768w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Kelly-Edmondson-12x12.webp 12w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\"><em>\u201cWhen my son Darius passed away suddenly, my leader supported me in taking months off to effectively begin the healing journey. She flew to the other side of the country for his funeral. She referred me to a grief counselor that specialized in sudden loss for parents. My ex-husband\u2019s company granted him 2 weeks. He couldn\u2019t make it through the day when he returned.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">As Kelly explains, the lack of guidelines leaves employers guessing about how to support their employees, which leaves employees without the time or compassion they need.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"bereavement-leave-policy-checklist-for-employers\" class=\"wp-block-heading translation-block\">Bereavement leave policy checklist for employers<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">A bereavement leave policy is a written document that outlines what employees can expect when a loved one dies.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignleft size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"655\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Good-bereavement-leave-policy-1024x655.webp\" alt=\"Good bereavement leave policy\" class=\"wp-image-6039\" srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Good-bereavement-leave-policy-1024x655.webp 1024w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Good-bereavement-leave-policy-300x192.webp 300w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Good-bereavement-leave-policy-768x491.webp 768w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Good-bereavement-leave-policy-18x12.webp 18w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Good-bereavement-leave-policy.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">A compliant, employee-friendly bereavement leave policy should cover all of the following:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"translation-block\"><strong>Eligibility criteria<\/strong> \u2014 state which employees are covered (<a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/workforce-management\/part-time-vs-full-time\/\">full-time vs. part-time<\/a>, minimum tenure, etc.).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"translation-block\"><strong>Duration by relationship<\/strong> \u2014 specify days allowed for immediate family, extended family, and in-laws separately.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"translation-block\"><strong>Paid or unpaid<\/strong> \u2014 state clearly whether leave is paid, unpaid, or charged against accrued PTO.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"translation-block\"><strong>Family member definitions<\/strong> \u2014 list all qualifying relationships explicitly and review your state\u2019s law for the required minimum.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"translation-block\"><strong>Documentation requirements<\/strong> \u2014 specify what proof is needed (obituary, death certificate, funeral home letter) and the deadline to provide it.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"translation-block\"><strong>Reproductive loss events<\/strong> \u2014 if you operate in Illinois, include miscarriage, stillbirth, failed IVF, and failed adoption as qualifying events.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"translation-block\"><strong>Request process<\/strong> \u2014 tell employees how and when to notify their manager and HR.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"translation-block\"><strong>Interaction with other leave<\/strong> \u2014 clarify how bereavement leave interacts with FMLA, PTO, and sick leave.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">\u2b07\ufe0f <a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/pto-templates\">Get 11 PTO Policy Templates for FREE<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">Once your bereavement leave policy is in place, you need a reliable way to track it. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">Clockify\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/leave-pto-vacation-tracker\">PTO and vacation tracker<\/a> lets employees submit bereavement leave requests in a few clicks, and managers can approve them instantly from the same platform. All leave balances, approvals, and time-off history are stored in one place, so your policy doesn\u2019t just exist on paper.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">\n<div class=\"banner banner-dark clockify-gradient-landing-4\">\n    <div class=\"banner-text lg:pr-[6rem]\">\n        <h2 class=\"translation-block text-2xl !mb-4\">PTO &amp; Vacation Tracker<\/h2>\n        <p class=\"translation-block !text-sm\">Make time-off requests and track leaves and absences in Clockify.<\/p>\n\n        <div class=\"banner-buttons d-flex space-x-4 translation-block\">\n            <a class=\"rounded-md px-6 py-2 bg-white\" href=\"https:\/\/app.clockify.me\/en\/signup\" target=\"_blank\">Sign up<\/a>\n\n                            <a class=\"button-2\" href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/leave-pto-vacation-tracker\" target=\"_blank\">Learn more<\/a>\n                    <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"banner-image banner-image-middle \">\n        <picture>\n            <source srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/learn\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-learn\/src\/images\/clockify\/banners\/landing-4@2x.png 2x\" alt=\"Illustration\"  media=\"(min-width: 1022px)\" \/>\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/learn\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-learn\/src\/images\/clockify\/banners\/landing-4.png\"  alt=\"Illustration\" \/>\n        <\/picture>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n    &nbsp;<br><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"states-with-mandatory-bereavement-leave-laws-2026\" class=\"wp-block-heading translation-block\">States with mandatory bereavement leave laws (2026)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">As of 2026, 6 states require employers to provide bereavement leave:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"translation-block\"><a href=\"https:\/\/calcivilrights.ca.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/32\/2023\/04\/Bereavement-Leave_AB-1949_FAQ_ENG.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">California<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"translation-block\"><a href=\"https:\/\/labor.illinois.gov\/laws-rules\/leave_rights_division\/family-bereavement-leave-act.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Illinois<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"translation-block\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.dllr.state.md.us\/labor\/wages\/essguide.shtml\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Maryland<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"translation-block\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.oregon.gov\/das\/Policies\/60-000-15.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Oregon<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"translation-block\"><a href=\"https:\/\/legislature.vermont.gov\/statutes\/section\/21\/005\/00472\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Vermont<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"translation-block\"><a href=\"https:\/\/apps.leg.wa.gov\/Wac\/default.aspx?cite=357-31-250\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Washington<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"631\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/States-with-mandatory-bereavement-leave-1024x631.webp\" alt=\"States with mandatory bereavement leave\" class=\"wp-image-6040\" srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/States-with-mandatory-bereavement-leave-1024x631.webp 1024w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/States-with-mandatory-bereavement-leave-300x185.webp 300w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/States-with-mandatory-bereavement-leave-768x474.webp 768w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/States-with-mandatory-bereavement-leave-18x12.webp 18w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/States-with-mandatory-bereavement-leave.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h3 id=\"california-bereavement-leave\" class=\"wp-block-heading translation-block\">California bereavement leave<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Employer size<\/strong>: 5+ employees<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Employee eligibility<\/strong>: Employed for at least 30 days before leave begins (excludes employees covered by a valid collective bargaining agreement)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Duration<\/strong>: Up to 5 days<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Paid or unpaid<\/strong>: Unpaid (employees may use accrued PTO)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Qualifying family members<\/strong>: Spouse, child, parent, sibling, grandparent, grandchild, domestic partner, parent-in-law<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Documentation<\/strong>: A death certificate, published obituary, or written verification from a mortuary, funeral home, burial society, crematorium, religious institution, or government agency<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-background translation-block wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"background-color:#e1f5fe\"><strong>Note:<\/strong> California employees don\u2019t need to take their 5 days consecutively. The leave must be completed within 3 months of the family member\u2019s death.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"illinois-bereavement-leave\" class=\"wp-block-heading translation-block\">Illinois bereavement leave<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Employer size<\/strong>: 50+ employees (covered by the federal FMLA)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Employee eligibility<\/strong>: Worked at least 1,250 hours in the previous 12 months<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Duration<\/strong>: Up to 10 workdays (and up to 6 weeks total in a 12-month period if multiple qualifying events occur)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Paid or unpaid<\/strong>: Unpaid (employees may substitute accrued paid leave)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Qualifying family members<\/strong>: Child, stepchild, foster child, spouse, domestic partner, sibling, parent, stepparent, parent-in-law, grandchild, grandparent<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Qualifying reproductive loss events<\/strong>: Illinois is the only state that explicitly covers reproductive loss events. Under the Family Bereavement Leave Act (FBLA), employees can also take bereavement leave for:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"translation-block\">Miscarriage<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"translation-block\">Stillbirth<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"translation-block\">Failed IVF<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"translation-block\">Unsuccessful adoption&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"translation-block\">Unsuccessful surrogacy<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"translation-block\">A diagnosis that negatively impacts pregnancy or fertility<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Documentation<\/strong>: A death certificate or published obituary<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-background translation-block wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"background-color:#e1f5fe\"><strong>Note<\/strong>: Reproductive loss leave must be completed within 60 days of the event.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"maryland-bereavement-leave\" class=\"wp-block-heading translation-block\">Maryland bereavement leave<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Employer size<\/strong>: 15+ employees<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Employee eligibility<\/strong>: All employees of covered employers<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Duration<\/strong>: Accrued and earned leave amount<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Paid or unpaid<\/strong>: Paid, using the employee\u2019s existing accrued leave<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Qualifying family members<\/strong>: Child, spouse, parent<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Documentation<\/strong>: Not specified by law<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-background translation-block wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"background-color:#e1f5fe\"><strong>Note<\/strong>: Maryland\u2019s law covers fewer family members than other states. If you lose a grandparent, sibling, or in-law, your eligibility depends on your employer\u2019s policy, not state law.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"oregon-bereavement-leave\" class=\"wp-block-heading translation-block\">Oregon bereavement leave<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Employer size<\/strong>: 25+ employees<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Employee eligibility<\/strong>: Worked at least 180 calendar days and an average of 25 hours per week before leave begins<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Duration<\/strong>: Up to 2 weeks<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Paid or unpaid<\/strong>: Unpaid<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Qualifying family members<\/strong>: Spouse, domestic partner, child, parent, parent\u2019s spouse or domestic partner, sibling, stepsibling, grandparent, grandparent\u2019s spouse or domestic partner, grandchild, grandchild\u2019s spouse or domestic partner, or any individual related by blood or whose association with the employee is the equivalent of a family relationship<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Documentation<\/strong>: Not specified by law<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-background translation-block wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"background-color:#e1f5fe\"><strong>Note<\/strong>: Oregon\u2019s family member definition is one of the broadest of any state. Review the \u201cclose association\u201d language as it may extend coverage to non-relatives in some cases.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"vermont-bereavement-leave\" class=\"wp-block-heading translation-block\">Vermont bereavement leave<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Employer size<\/strong>: 10+ employees who work at least 30 hours per week<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Employee eligibility<\/strong>: Worked an average of 30+ hours per week for the previous 12 months<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Duration<\/strong>: Up to 2 weeks (10 workdays) within the employee\u2019s overall 12-week Vermont Parental and Family Leave Act (VPFLA) entitlement, but no more than 5 consecutive workdays<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Paid or unpaid<\/strong>: Unpaid (employees may choose to apply accrued paid leave)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Qualifying family members<\/strong>: Spouse, civil union partner, domestic partner, child, parent, grandparent, grandchild, sibling, stepchildren, stepparents, and certain individuals for whom the employee has caregiving responsibilities<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Documentation:<\/strong> Not specified by law<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-background translation-block wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"background-color:#e1f5fe\"><strong>Note<\/strong>: Vermont\u2019s 2 weeks of bereavement leave are part of the employee\u2019s 12-week VPFLA entitlement \u2014 not 2 additional weeks.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"washington-bereavement-leave\" class=\"wp-block-heading translation-block\">Washington bereavement leave<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Employer size<\/strong>: All employers<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Employee eligibility<\/strong>: All employees<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Duration<\/strong>: Up to 5 days (up to <a href=\"https:\/\/paidleave.wa.gov\/question\/what-is-family-leave-for-the-loss-of-a-child\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">7 days for the death of a child<\/a>)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Paid or unpaid<\/strong>: Paid (employees may also draw from accrued PTO)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Qualifying family members<\/strong>: Any family member or household member<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Documentation<\/strong>: Not specified by law<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-background translation-block wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"background-color:#e1f5fe\"><strong>Note<\/strong>: Washington\u2019s definition of \u201cfamily member or household member\u201d is intentionally broad. That said, roommates, domestic partners, and other close household members may qualify.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"custom-btn translation-block wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/app.clockify.me\/en\/signup\">Track leave &amp; PTO in Clockify<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"states-with-bereavement-leave-coverage-through-sick-leave-laws\" class=\"wp-block-heading translation-block\">States with bereavement leave coverage through sick leave laws<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">Colorado and Minnesota are 2 states that don\u2019t have standalone bereavement leave laws, but both allow employees to use accrued paid sick leave for bereavement purposes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"colorado\" class=\"wp-block-heading translation-block\">Colorado<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">Colorado\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/cdle.colorado.gov\/sites\/cdle\/files\/colorado_healthy_families_and_workplaces_act_revised_aug_7_2023.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Healthy Families and Workplaces Act<\/a> lists bereavement as a qualifying reason for using accrued paid sick leave. Employers with 16+ employees are required to provide paid sick leave under this law.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">Employees accrue 1 hour of paid sick leave for every 30 hours worked, up to 48 hours per year. This accrued leave can be used to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"translation-block\"><strong>Grieve<\/strong> the death of a family member<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"translation-block\"><strong>Attend<\/strong> a funeral or memorial service<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"translation-block\"><strong>Handle<\/strong> financial and legal matters related to a death<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"minnesota\" class=\"wp-block-heading translation-block\">Minnesota<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">Minnesota\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/www.dli.mn.gov\/sick-leave\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Earned Sick and Safe Time (ESST)<\/a> law allows employees to use accrued paid sick leave for bereavement purposes. As in Colorado, employees in Minnesota accrue 1 hour of paid leave for every 30 hours worked, up to 48 hours per year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">Additionally, Minnesota\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/minnesotanonprofits.org\/public-policy\/pfml\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) program<\/a>, while primarily designed for caregiving and medical situations, may provide additional support under its family care provisions during extended bereavement periods. Employers should review the PFML qualifying circumstances to understand how they interact with bereavement situations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"states-without-mandatory-bereavement-leave\" class=\"wp-block-heading translation-block\">States without mandatory bereavement leave<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">The following states have no law requiring employers to provide bereavement leave.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table responsive\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th><strong>US states without mandatory bereavement leave<\/strong><\/th><th><\/th><th><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Alabama<\/td><td>Louisiana<\/td><td>North Dakota<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Alaska<\/td><td>Maine<\/td><td>Ohio<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Arizona<\/td><td>Massachusetts<\/td><td>Oklahoma<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Arkansas<\/td><td>Michigan<\/td><td>Pennsylvania<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Connecticut<\/td><td>Mississippi<\/td><td>Rhode Island<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Delaware<\/td><td>Missouri<\/td><td>South Carolina<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Florida<\/td><td>Montana<\/td><td>South Dakota<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Georgia<\/td><td>Nebraska<\/td><td>Tennessee<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Hawaii<\/td><td>Nevada<\/td><td>Texas<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Idaho<\/td><td>New Hampshire<\/td><td>Utah<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Indiana<\/td><td>New Jersey<\/td><td>Virginia<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Iowa<\/td><td>New Mexico<\/td><td>West Virginia<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Kansas<\/td><td>New York<\/td><td>Wisconsin<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Kentucky<\/td><td>North Carolina<\/td><td>Wyoming<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\"><br>Employees in these states aren\u2019t without options. If your employer doesn\u2019t offer bereavement leave, you may be able to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"translation-block\">Use accrued vacation or PTO days<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"translation-block\">Request unpaid leave<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"translation-block\">Use FMLA leave in case of miscarriage or stillbirth<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"translation-block\">Negotiate directly with your manager or HR<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group pro-tip\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">\ud83d\udca1 <strong>CLOCKIFY PRO TIP<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">If you want to learn more about PTO, accruals, benefits, and more, head to the link below:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"translation-block\"><a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/learn\/business-management\/pto-accrual\/\">PTO Accrual Guide: Definition, Benefits, Tips &amp; FAQ<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Can an employer still offer bereavement leave even if the state doesn\u2019t require it?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">Yes, an employer can offer bereavement leave regardless of whether state law mandates it. According to the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.empathy.com\/resources\/research\/employee-benefits-report\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">2026 Workplace Benefits Report<\/a>, 84% of employers plan to expand bereavement support this year, while 95% of employees consider bereavement-related benefits valuable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"custom-btn translation-block wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/app.clockify.me\/en\/signup\">Try PTO tracking in Clockify<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"upcoming-bereavement-leave-legislation-to-watch-out-for\" class=\"wp-block-heading translation-block\">Upcoming bereavement leave legislation to watch out for<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">New York and Massachusetts are actively considering bereavement leave laws as of 2026.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>New York: <\/strong>Although still under consideration, multiple bills have been introduced to expand New York\u2019s Paid Family Leave (PFL) program to include bereavement. Senate Bill <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nysenate.gov\/legislation\/bills\/2025\/S3944\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">S3944<\/a> and Assembly Bill <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nysenate.gov\/legislation\/bills\/2025\/A3529\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">A3529<\/a> (2025\u20132026 session) would authorize paid family leave for bereavement. A separate bill, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nysenate.gov\/legislation\/bills\/2025\/S8892\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">S8892<\/a>, would allow employees to use accrued paid sick leave for bereavement, including pregnancy loss and the departure of a long-term foster child.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Massachusetts: <\/strong>Multiple <a href=\"https:\/\/www.billtrack50.com\/billdetail\/1994287\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">bills in the 2025\u20132026 legislative session<\/a> propose mandatory bereavement leave for employers with 25+ employees, with up to 10 days of job-protected leave. Debate continues around whether the leave should be paid or unpaid, and whether child loss should receive separate treatment.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"how-to-request-bereavement-leave\" class=\"wp-block-heading translation-block\">How to request bereavement leave<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">Requesting bereavement leave is straightforward. Here\u2019s how to do it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Step #1: Check your company policy<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">Review your employee handbook to understand your entitlement, including how much time you get, whether it\u2019s paid, and what your employer requires from you. If no formal policy exists, contact HR directly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Step #2: Notify your employer as soon as possible<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">Contact your manager or HR department promptly. Let them know the date of death, when you plan to be absent, and any travel involved. Depending on your company, you may need to send an email, call HR, or complete a leave request form.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Step #3: Handle documentation and prepare handover<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">You may need to provide a death certificate, published obituary, or written verification from a funeral home or religious institution. Most employers give you up to 30 days from the start of your leave to submit it. Before you go, let your colleagues know which tasks need coverage and leave your contact details for genuine emergencies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group pro-tip\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">\ud83d\udca1 <strong>CLOCKIFY PRO TIP<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">Need help writing a time-off email? Read the following tips for some valuable advice:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"translation-block\"><a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/business\/vacation-request-email\/\">How To Write a Vacation Request Email (+ Tips &amp; Examples)<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"track-bereavement-leave-and-manage-time-off-efficiently-with-clockify-by-cake-com\" class=\"wp-block-heading translation-block\">Track bereavement leave and manage time off efficiently \u2014 with Clockify by CAKE.com<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">Providing bereavement leave to grieving employees is a nice way to show empathy and support \u2014 even when it\u2019s not mandated by law. However, managing bereavement leave manually gets complicated fast, especially for teams spread across states with different law requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">With <a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/features\/time-off\">Clockify\u2019s Time off feature<\/a>, employees can submit leave requests in a few clicks. Managers get an instant notification and can approve or deny from the same platform.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Time Off - Administration | Clockify Tutorial (2025)\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/t7201q6kubw?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">All balances and approvals stay in one place, cutting out the back-and-forth of manual tracking. Balance expiry date is optional.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"622\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Time-off-in-Clockify-1024x622.webp\" alt=\"Time off in Clockify\" class=\"wp-image-6041\" srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Time-off-in-Clockify-1024x622.webp 1024w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Time-off-in-Clockify-300x182.webp 300w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Time-off-in-Clockify-768x467.webp 768w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Time-off-in-Clockify-18x12.webp 18w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Time-off-in-Clockify.webp 1150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Time off in Clockify<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">When someone goes out on leave, <a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/features\/scheduling\">Clockify\u2019s Scheduling<\/a> dashboard makes it easy to redistribute work. The drag-and-drop interface shows capacity at a glance, and overbooked team members are flagged with a red line so managers can reassign before it becomes a problem.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"837\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Scheduling-in-Clockify-1024x837.webp\" alt=\"Scheduling in Clockify\" class=\"wp-image-6042\" srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Scheduling-in-Clockify-1024x837.webp 1024w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Scheduling-in-Clockify-300x245.webp 300w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Scheduling-in-Clockify-768x627.webp 768w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Scheduling-in-Clockify-15x12.webp 15w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Scheduling-in-Clockify.webp 1076w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Scheduling in Clockify<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">With Clockify, it\u2019s simple to grant time off without endangering the company\u2019s workflow.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">\n<div class=\"banner banner-dark clockify-gradient-bundle\">\n    <div class=\"banner-text lg:pr-[6rem]\">\n        <h2 class=\"translation-block text-2xl !mb-4\">CAKE.com Bundle<\/h2>\n        <p class=\"translation-block !text-sm\">Track time with Clockify, manage projects with Plaky, and communicate internally with Pumble \u2014 all in one place.<\/p>\n\n        <div class=\"banner-buttons d-flex space-x-4 translation-block\">\n            <a class=\"rounded-md px-6 py-2 bg-white\" href=\"https:\/\/cake.com\/bundle\" target=\"_blank\">Get Bundle<\/a>\n\n                            <a class=\"button-2\" href=\"https:\/\/cake.com\/suite\" target=\"_blank\">Learn more<\/a>\n                    <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"banner-image banner-image-bottom \">\n        <picture>\n            <source srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/learn\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-learn\/src\/images\/clockify\/banners\/bundle@2x.png 2x\" alt=\"Illustration\"  media=\"(min-width: 1022px)\" \/>\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/learn\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-learn\/src\/images\/clockify\/banners\/bundle.png\"  alt=\"Illustration\" \/>\n        <\/picture>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n    <br><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"faqs-about-bereavement-leave\" class=\"wp-block-heading translation-block\">FAQs about bereavement leave<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">If you need additional information about taking funeral leave, we\u2019ve answered some of the most frequently asked questions below.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"which-states-require-paid-bereavement-leave\" class=\"wp-block-heading translation-block\">Which states require paid bereavement leave?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">Only Washington requires paid bereavement leave. Maryland state law allows employees to draw from accrued paid leave. Colorado requires paid sick leave to be available for bereavement purposes.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"what-is-considered-immediate-family-for-bereavement\" class=\"wp-block-heading translation-block\">What is considered immediate family for bereavement?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">Immediate family typically includes a spouse or domestic partner, a child (biological, adopted, foster, or step), a parent, and a sibling.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"how-many-days-off-do-you-get-if-a-family-member-dies\" class=\"wp-block-heading translation-block\">How many days off do you get if a family member dies?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">Most employers provide 3 paid days of bereavement leave for an immediate family member. State law minimums vary from up to 5 days to up to 2 weeks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"what-proof-do-employers-ask-for-bereavement\" class=\"wp-block-heading translation-block\">What proof do employers ask for bereavement?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">Common proof for bereavement leave includes a death certificate, published obituary, or written verification from a funeral home, crematorium, religious institution, or government agency. Most employers allow up to 30 days from the start of leave to submit documentation.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"can-i-be-fired-for-taking-bereavement-leave\" class=\"wp-block-heading translation-block\">Can I be fired for taking bereavement leave?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">In states where bereavement leave is mandated by law, employers can\u2019t retaliate against an employee for taking it. In states with no bereavement laws, protection depends on your employment agreement and company policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"what-is-the-difference-between-fmla-and-bereavement-leave\" class=\"wp-block-heading translation-block\">What is the difference between FMLA and bereavement leave?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">Bereavement leave is time off granted specifically after the death of a family member. FMLA is a federal law that provides eligible employees with up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave for qualifying family and medical reasons. The FMLA covers bereavement only in cases of miscarriage or stillbirth, not other deaths.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"how-many-days-of-bereavement-do-you-get-for-a-mother-in-law\" class=\"wp-block-heading translation-block\">How many days of bereavement do you get for a mother-in-law?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">Bereavement leave for mother-in-law lasts up to 5 days in California and up to 10 days in Illinois. California and Illinois are the only states that explicitly include parents-in-law in their state laws for bereavement leave. In all other states, it depends on employer policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"do-aunts-and-uncles-count-for-bereavement\" class=\"wp-block-heading translation-block\">Do aunts and uncles count for bereavement?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">No state bereavement law includes aunts and uncles. Whether you\u2019re entitled to leave for an aunt or uncle depends on your employer\u2019s discretion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"can-you-take-bereavement-leave-if-you-dont-go-to-the-funeral\" class=\"wp-block-heading translation-block\">Can you take bereavement leave if you don&#8217;t go to the funeral?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">In most cases, yes, you can take bereavement leave even if you don\u2019t go to the funeral. Bereavement leave covers grieving and handling arrangements, not just the funeral itself. Most employers don\u2019t require proof of attendance, but check your company policy to be sure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"custom-btn translation-block wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/app.clockify.me\/en\/signup\" type=\"link\" id=\"https:\/\/app.clockify.me\/en\/signup\">Try Clockify FREE today<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Disclaimer<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">Please bear in mind that this bereavement leave laws guide was written in Q2 of 2026. Thus, it may not include changes introduced after it was published.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">We strongly advise you to consult the appropriate institutions and\/or certified representatives before acting on any legal matters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"translation-block wp-block-paragraph\">Clockify is not responsible for any losses or risks incurred should this guide be used without legal guidance.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Federal law doesn\u2019t require bereavement leave. Learn which 6 states offer state bereavement leave laws, which family members qualify &#038; more.<\/p>","protected":false},"author":6,"featured_media":6036,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[4,5],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1747","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-business-management","category-business-regulations"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/clockify.me\/learn\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1747","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/clockify.me\/learn\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/clockify.me\/learn\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/clockify.me\/learn\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/6"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/clockify.me\/learn\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1747"}],"version-history":[{"count":63,"href":"https:\/\/clockify.me\/learn\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1747\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":6080,"href":"https:\/\/clockify.me\/learn\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1747\/revisions\/6080"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/clockify.me\/learn\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/6036"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/clockify.me\/learn\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1747"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/clockify.me\/learn\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1747"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/clockify.me\/learn\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1747"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}