Maternity Leave Application. 11 Formats to ease the Process!

Dec 5, 2022by Eduyush Team

Maternity leave application letter

Maternity leave applications are essential for expecting mothers to officially request time off from work during their pregnancy and after childbirth. Navigating the process of applying for maternity leave can feel overwhelming, but understanding how to write a clear and practical maternity leave application can make it smoother.

This blog provides a detailed guide on drafting a maternity leave letter, what to include, and tips for ensuring your application is approved without hassle.

Reasons for taking maternity leave

There are many reasons why someone might choose to take maternity leave, including:

  1. To bond with and care for a newborn or newly adopted child
  2. To recover from childbirth or a related medical condition
  3. To allow the child's other parent (if applicable) to bond with and care for the child
  4. To allow the child to breastfeed if the mother is the primary caregiver
  5. To allow the mother to rest and recuperate after childbirth

Taking maternity leave can also have positive effects on the child's development, as well as on the mother's physical and mental health. In many countries, maternity leave is legally protected, and employers must provide some time off to employees who are expecting or have recently given birth.

    In many cases, adoptive parents may also need to take time off work to travel for adoption or attend any necessary medical appointments or procedures for the child. Taking maternity or paternity leave after adopting a child can help provide the necessary time and support to ensure that the child and the adoptive parents have a smooth transition.

    How to write a maternity leave application

    Elements of the application

    Watch our video on how to write a maternity leave application

    The maternity leave application letter should be written professionally. It should include the 

    • Employee's name
    • Job title
    • Your maternity leave request
    • The expected due date of the employee's baby
    • A statement confirming that the employee has informed their supervisor of their pregnancy and the expected due date
    • A request for a specific number of weeks of maternity leave
    • A statement confirming that the employee intends to return to work after their leave
    • And the estimated return date.

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    Steps to write the application

    Writing a professional maternity leave letter is essential for getting the leave approved by your employer. Here are a few tips to help you write a successful formal letter: - 

    • Include all relevant information, such as your job title, the expected delivery due date, and how long the leave will last. 
    • Use a professional tone and avoid using overly emotional language. 
    • Include any medical documentation that may be required. 
    • Be sure to include information about who will be responsible for your other children while you are away.
    • Include details about how you plan to stay in contact while on leave. - Ask your employer if they have any specific requirements for maternity leave applications.

    Samples of maternity leave letter

    It may be helpful to consult with HR or the employee's supervisor to ensure that all necessary information is included in the formal letter.

    (download the maternity leave letter samples as a s a pdf)

    1. Maternity leave application for office

    Subject: Application for Maternity Leave

    Dear [Manager’s Name],

    I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to formally apply for maternity leave starting from [start date], as my expected delivery date is [due date]. As per the company’s maternity leave policy and the  Maternity Benefit Act, 1961 provisions, I am eligible for [number of weeks] weeks of paid leave. I plan to return to work on [expected return date]. [Colleague's name] will handle all ongoing projects and responsibilities smoothly during my absence, as we have coordinated.

    I have also completed all necessary documentation and handovers to facilitate a seamless transition. Please process my maternity leave application as soon as possible and provide any further instructions, if required. Please let me know if any additional information or paperwork is needed to formalize this process. I am confident the team will manage well in my absence, and I look forward to rejoining the office after my leave.

    Thank you for your understanding and support during this significant time.

    Warm regards,

    Alternatively you can use the following indicating the company policy

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    2. Maternity leave application after delivery

    Subject: Maternity Leave Application After Delivery

    Dear [Manager’s Name],

    I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to inform you that I have recently delivered a healthy baby on [delivery date]. As I focus on my recovery and new responsibilities as a mother, I would like to request an extension of my maternity leave to ensure I have sufficient time to care for my newborn and myself. I plan to utilize the remaining [number of weeks] of my leave, as discussed before my leave.

    [Colleague’s name] will manage my ongoing tasks during my absence, ensuring coverage of my responsibilities. Furthermore, I anticipate returning to work on [expected return date]. Please let me know if any further documentation or information is required to process this maternity leave application after delivery. I appreciate your understanding and support during this significant time.

    Thank you for your consideration.

    Regards

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    3.  Format of leave application letter due to pregnancy complications

    Dear [Employer],

    Subject: Application for maternity leave

    I am requesting a leave of absence from [start date] to [end date] to recover from childbirth and related medical conditions.

    I recently gave birth to a healthy baby; however, I have experienced complications that require additional rest and medical attention. My doctor has advised taking at least [length of time] to recover fully before I can return to work. To support my request, I am attaching a medical certificate confirming my pregnancy complications.

    I understand the company is busy during this time, but I am committed to working with you to ensure my responsibilities are covered during my absence.  Furthermore, I will remain available by phone and email for any urgent needs.

    Thank you for considering my request. I look forward to returning to work and sharing my news with you.

    Sincerely

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    4.  Maternity leave extension letter due to baby care

    Maternity leave application

    Subject: Request for Extension of Maternity Leave Due to Baby Care

    Dear [Supervisor’s Name],

    I hope you are doing well. I am writing to request an extension of my maternity leave. Although I had planned to return to work on [original return date], I need additional time to care for my newborn. The past few weeks have been an incredible journey, but they have also made me realize the immense responsibility of nurturing a new life. My baby’s needs are more demanding than I anticipated, and I feel that extending my leave is in my child's and my family's best interest.

    I kindly request an additional [number of weeks] weeks of maternity leave to ensure I can provide the necessary care and support during these crucial early stages. Additionally, I understand the importance of my role at work and am committed to resuming my responsibilities as soon as possible. I will remain accessible via email for any urgent matters during this extended leave period.

    I sincerely appreciate your understanding and support during this time. Balancing work and motherhood is a significant challenge, and your consideration in granting this maternity leave extension will make a tremendous difference in my ability to care for my child.

    Thank you for your continued support and understanding.

    Sincerely, [Your Name]

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    5. Format of application for adoption of the child

    Dear [Employer],

    I am writing to request a leave of absence from [start date] to [end date] to start my maternity leave to  complete the adoption process for a child.

    During this time, I will need to attend several legal and counseling sessions, as well as complete any necessary paperwork. The adoption process is expected to be completed by [expected date of placement], and I will return to work on [date of return to work].

    I understand that this is a busy time for the company, and I am willing to work with you to ensure that my responsibilities are covered during my absence. I will be available by phone and email during my leave, and I will make every effort to keep you informed of any developments in the adoption process.

    Thank you for considering my request. I look forward to returning to work and sharing my news with you.

    Sincerely, [Your Name]

    Guide To Crafting A Leave Application For Office. Formats & samples

    6. Maternity Leave Application for Government Employees

    Subject: Application for Maternity Leave

    Dear [Supervisor’s Name],

    I hope this letter finds you in good health. I am writing to formally request maternity leave as I prepare for the birth of my child. My due date is [expected due date], and I would like to begin my maternity leave from [start date]. As per the maternity leave provisions for government employees, I request the sanctioned leave duration of [number of weeks] weeks to ensure I can focus on my health and the well-being of my newborn.

    During my absence, I have made arrangements to delegate my current responsibilities to [colleague’s name], who has kindly agreed to manage them. I will ensure a smooth handover of my duties before commencing my leave. If any additional documentation or formalities are required to process my maternity leave application for government employees, please inform me as soon as possible.

    Thank you for your support and consideration during this crucial time. Upon my return, I am committed to fulfilling my duties to the best of my ability and appreciate the understanding extended to me during this significant period of my life.

    Sincerely, [Your Name]

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    7. Format of a maternity leave application for teachers

    Dear [Principal],

    Subject: Application for maternity leave

    I am writing to request a leave of absence from [start date] to [end date] to bond with and care for my newborn child.

    As you know, I am expecting a child in [expected delivery date], and I will need some time off to recover from childbirth and adjust to my new role as a mother. My doctor has advised me to take at least [length of time] to recover fully before returning to work.

    During my leave, I will be available by phone and email to address any urgent matters, and I will work with you to ensure that my responsibilities are covered in my absence. I will also be happy to work with you to develop a plan for my return to work, including any necessary accommodations.

    Thank you for considering my request. I am excited to welcome my new child into the world and look forward to returning to work and sharing my news with you.

    Sincerely, [Your Name]

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    8. Format for rejoining office after maternity leave 

    Dear [Employer],

    I am writing to inform you that I am ready to return to work after my maternity leave. My leave began on [start date] and ended on [end date], and I have now completed [length of leave] of time off.

    I am excited to return to work and contribute to the team again, and I am confident that I will be able to fulfill my responsibilities to the best of my ability. I am also happy to work with you to develop a plan for my return to work, including any necessary accommodations.

    Thank you for your support and understanding during my leave. I am looking forward to returning to work and getting back to business as usual.
    Sincerely,

    [Your Name]

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    9. Maternity leave extension letter due to a health issue

    Subject: Request for Extension of Maternity Leave Due to Health Issues

    Dear [Supervisor’s Name],

    I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to formally request an extension of my maternity leave due to ongoing health concerns. Despite my original intention to return to work on [original return date], my doctor has advised me to take additional time to fully recover from complications that arose postpartum.

    My current condition makes it difficult for me to perform my duties effectively, and I believe that extending my maternity leave is essential for my complete recovery.

    I kindly request an additional [number of weeks] weeks of parental leave to focus on my health and ensure that I can return to work fully capable of meeting the demands of my position. Additionally, I understand the importance of my role within the team and assure you that I will be available via email or phone for any urgent matters during this period.

    I am committed to returning to my responsibilities once I have better health.

    We appreciate your understanding and support during this time. Extending my maternal leave will not only aid in my recovery but also ensure that I can contribute more effectively to the team upon my return.

    Thank you for your consideration and for supporting me during this challenging time.

    Sincerely

    10. Sample of out of office maternity leave message

    Subject: Out of Office: Maternity Leave
    Hello,
    Thank you for your email. I am on maternity leave and will be away from the office until [return date]. During this particular time, I will have limited access to my email and may be unable to respond promptly.
    For urgent matters or immediate assistance, please contact [colleague's name] at [colleague's email address] or [colleague's phone number]. They are fully informed of my ongoing projects and will ensure the continuity of work in my absence.
    I appreciate your understanding and look forward to connecting with you upon my return.
    Best regards,

    11. Maternity leave letter to college principal

    Subject: Request for Maternity Leave

    Dear [Principal’s Name],

    I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to formally request maternity leave from my  [Assistant Professor/Your Role] duties in the [Department Name] due to my approaching due date. As I am nearing the end of my pregnancy, I am preparing for the arrival of my baby. I will need time away from my responsibilities at the college to focus on my health and well-being during this critical period.

    I kindly request a leave of absence starting from [start date] for a duration of [number of weeks/months] as I navigate this critical phase of motherhood. This maternity leave will allow me to recover from childbirth and bond with my newborn, ensuring I can return to my teaching duties with renewed energy and focus. I will ensure that all necessary arrangements are made for my classes during my absence, including handing over any critical assignments or course materials to my colleagues.

    Taking this maternity leave is crucial for both my physical recovery and the well-being of my child. I look forward to resuming my duties and continuing to contribute to the college once I am ready to return.

    Thank you for your consideration.

    Sincerely

    Summing up

    Maternity leave is a crucial time for both the mother and the baby. It allows the mother to recover emotionally and physically while bonding with her newborn. If you are pregnant or planning to get pregnant, we recommend taking advantage of this benefit. 

    Be sure to read our other blog post on different types of leave applications on sick leave, marriage, office leaves etc., to be prepared when the time comes.


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    Leave application Questions? Answers.

    To write a leave application, you should include the following information: the reason for the leave, the dates of the leave, how you will keep in touch (if applicable), and a plan for catching up on any missed work.

    You should submit your leave application as soon as you know that you need to take time off. This will allow your employer to plan accordingly and minimize disruption to the workplace.

    This depends on your employer's policies and the specific reason for the leave.

    In some cases, an unpaid leave of absence may be granted for personal or family reasons. However, it is best to discuss this with your employer to determine what is possible.

    Yes, most employers are required to provide maternity and paternity leave to eligible employees. The specific terms of the leave, including the duration and whether it is paid or unpaid, may vary depending on the employer and the individual's situation.

    Yes, employees who are called to active military duty are entitled to take a leave of absence for military service. The specific terms of the leave, including the duration and whether it is paid or unpaid, may vary depending on the employer and the individual's situation.

    To request a leave of absence, you should first check with your employer to see what their policies and procedures are for taking time off. In most cases, you will need to submit a written request for leave to your supervisor or HR department. Be sure to include the reason for your leave, the dates you plan to be out, and any other relevant information.

    Yes, in most cases you can take a leave of absence for personal reasons. However, the specific reasons for which you are allowed to take time off will vary depending on your employer's policies and the laws in your state. For example, some employers may allow you to take time off for personal reasons such as to care for a sick family member, while others may only permit leaves for medical reasons.

    Whether your benefits will continue while you are on leave will depend on the specific policies of your employer and the laws in your state. In some cases, your employer may continue to provide benefits such as health insurance and paid time off during your leave, while in other cases, you may need to pay for these benefits yourself or they may be suspended during your leave.

    Whether you will have to pay taxes on your leave pay will depend on the specific type of leave you are taking and the laws in your country.

    For example, if you are taking a leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) in the US, the pay you receive during your leave may be tax-free.

    However, if you are taking a personal leave of absence without pay, you will not receive any pay and therefore will not have to pay taxes on it.