Sewanee Benefits
Taking Time Away from Work
Use this checklist when you may need time away from work for your health, to care for someone else, or for another approved leave situation.
What to do first
Contact Human Resources as soon as possible to discuss your situation, timing, and the leave process.
Checklist
☐
Speak with HR about your leave options and next steps.
☐
Talk with your supervisor or department as appropriate about timing, coverage, and operational planning.
☐
Review what documentation or medical certification may be required.
☐
Understand whether your time away will be paid, unpaid, or a combination of both.
☐
Understand how your benefits may continue while you are away.
☐
Review any payroll or premium impacts during leave.
☐
Ask how benefit premiums will be handled if you are away from work and regular payroll is interrupted.
☐
Ask whether leave, short-term medical leave, FMLA, and long-term disability may overlap or connect in your situation.
☐
Stay in touch with HR and your department about timing, status, and return-to-work planning, if applicable.
☐
Confirm what is needed before returning to work, including any medical release or other documentation, if applicable.
Helpful resources
Staff Handbook Guide to FMLA FMLA Rights & ResponsibilitiesFaculty Medical Leave PolicyFaculty Parental Leave PolicyThe Benefits team can help you understand how your benefits work during time away and what steps to take first.
