Leave Extension Letter: Format, Samples & Tips to Apply

March 11, 2024
leave extension letter

Quick Summary

  • A leave extension letter is a formal request where an employee asks their manager for additional time off from work. 
  • The leave extension application includes the subject line, the reason for leave, the total timeline of leave, and the signature.
  • Mention of any medical certificates or supporting documents provided.

Table of Contents

Unforeseen circumstances may come up at any time requiring you to request for an extension of leave. This is for cases when you’re already on a declared leave or vacation leave letter. Writing a leave extension letter is easy. You need to follow the correct format and use professional language. 

Generally, 70-75% of annual leaves in Indian companies go unused, as per a recent report. If you’re someone who is very careful with taking breaks from work, then your unused leaves might act as your saviour. Therefore, the leave extension granted to you might be paid or unpaid, depending on your organization’s leave policy. This article provides detailed information about how to write a leave letter, frame a leave letter, format of leave letter, sick leave extension mail, and letter for an extension of maternity leave.

How to Frame a Leave Extension Letter? 

The following are some of the points to consider when framing a leave extension letter. 

  • Mention the honest reason for the extension.
  • Take into consideration the leave policy of your organisation.
  • Make a list of the certificates required along with the letter for extension of leave.
  • If there are any workload contractual obligations, assure your boss of fulfilling those. 
  • Mention the exact time and dates for when you will need an extension of leave. 

Leave Extension Letter Format

Leave extension letter format

You might have already sent a leave application format. Even then, you should send a new letter to leave request mail for an extension.

Below are some leave extension letter templates. You can refer to them as per your reason for a leave extension.

Related Article: How to Apply for Paternity Leave

Sick Leave Extension Mail to Manager

Sometimes, it takes time for us to recover from an illness. This email will help you in case you want to extend you sick leave for one more day. You may also procure a digital copy of the doctor’s certificate for medical leave application for office and send it to the manager.

To: [email address]

Subject: Extension of Sick Leave

Dear Sir/Ma’am,

I, [your name] ([employee ID]), would like to request you extend my leave. I have been on leave from [start date of the leave] to [end date of the leave]. However, I have not yet recovered from [the illness] due to unforeseen medical reasons.

My doctor has advised me to rest for three days more. I will not be able to return to work on [the end date of the leave]. I am coordinating with [colleague], who has accepted to handle my work until I return.
I’m requesting you grant me this extension for three days, until [extended date]. I have also attached the doctor’s certificate for your reference and I apologize for any inconvenience caused. Kindly consider my request.

Thank you

Regards,
[Your name]
[Your position]
[Employee ID]

Related Read: Writing a Sick Leave Application Professionally

Letter for Extension of Leave due to Family Emergencies/ Personal Reasons 

Family emergencies or other personal reasons can come up at any time. In any case, you must inform your boss immediately. This shows that family emergencies can mean sudden deterioration of health or an accident of a spouse, child, or close relative. It could also include instances of natural disasters where a relative is stuck. Sometimes you have to send an application for a leave extension due to family problems from your school for college this provides you a simple format samples.

Below is a sample of a leave extension mail for personal reasons sample sent to your boss-

[Date]
 To
[Name of your boss/ manager],
[Designation],
[Office address].

Subject: Extension of leave due to family emergency

Dear Sir/Ma’am,
I, [your name] ([employee ID]), have been on leave from [start date of the leave] to [original end date of leave]. However, due to certain unforeseen circumstances, I find myself dealing with a family emergency. I will not be able to return to the office on [the original end date of leave].

I request you grant me two additional days of leave, until [extended date requested]. I’m coordinating with [name of colleague], who has taken up my work. I will be available for calls and emails if there are any questions.

Hence, I sincerely apologize for any inconvenience caused and hope you understand. Kindly consider my request.

Thank you.

Sincerely,
[your signature]

Also, Read- Craft the Perfect Application for Leave

Sample Request Letter for Extension of Maternity Leave 

Maternity leave extension letter due to medical treatment can be extended. Refer to the company leave policy regarding leave extensions in this case. Below is the sample letter for the extension of the maternity leave application (email application format). 

To: k.verma@company.com

Subject: Extension of maternity leave

Dear sir,

I, Amrita (employee ID: 12345), am on maternity leave since February 15. My leave expires on March 12. However, I find myself unable to rejoin the office just yet. I haven’t yet completely healed from my pregnancy. Also, my child still requires my complete attention and care.

I request you extend my leave for another two weeks; until March 26. In this time, I will have healed well and will be ready for work. I have contacted my colleague, Miss. M. Kamala, who has graciously stepped in. She will handle my work until I return.

Kindly grant my request. I apologize for any inconvenience caused.

Thank you.

Regards,
B. Amrita,
Associate Designer, employee ID: 12345

Suggested Read: How to Write a Leave for Requesting Maternity Leave

Tips for Sending Out a Leave Extension

  • Be very professional: The letter must use professional language. Address your manager/ boss and your colleagues professionally. Use appropriate designations. 
  • Wait for the response: The leave is not guaranteed even if the letter is submitted. Wait for a response before taking the extension. 
  • Show gratitude: Always express your gratitude at the end of the leave extension letter. 
  • Highlight the dates: Clearly mention the original duration of your leave along with the start and end dates. Then mention the expected extended date along with the extended duration. 
  • Attach additional documents: Check for any additional documentation required. For sick leaves, a doctor’s certificate or medical reports are required. Procure them beforehand and attach them to the letter. 
  • Addressing your boss: Address the correct person. Some firms require that letters be submitted to HR. Others may require the leave extension letter to be submitted to the manager. 
  • Divide the Workload: Ensure that someone takes up your work. Speak with your colleagues beforehand and arrange for someone to take your place. Mention this in your letter so that everyone is kept in the loop. 
  • Be honest: Clearly state the reason for the extension of leave. Explain your situation briefly. Do not over-explain. 
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Wrapping Up 

In conclusion, writing a leave extension letter is necessary when unforeseen circumstances arise that require an extension of the initial leave period. It is essential to clearly explain the reason for the extension and provide a realistic timeline for returning to work.

By following the appropriate protocol and providing sufficient information, you can increase the chances of having your leave extension application approved by your employer. Remember, open communication and honesty are key when it comes to requesting an extension of your leave. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I ask for an extension of leave? 

To ask for an extension, politely and clearly explain the reasons why you need more time, what work you have completed, and what remains to be done. Offer a realistic timeline for completion and express gratitude for their consideration. Wait for a response and be prepared to answer any questions. 

To whom do I send or address the letter for an extension of leave?  

The recipient for a leave extension letter depends on the policies of your company. Check your company’s leave policy to determine whether you should send the letter to HR or your manager.

How to write an application for a leave of absence for fever?

The application for leave of absence due to fever can be written it’s sick leave for school or work. When requesting a medical leave application for school leave, mention the duration, total days, and reason for absence. To take time off work, follow these steps and inform your colleague who will handle your tasks also send a copy of an application for leave fever to a teacher or HR team.

Do I require any additional documents for applying for a leave extension? 

Depending on the reason for the leave, you may require certain documents. Usually, we need a doctor’s certificate or a medical report for sick leave. However, for personal or emergency leave, it may not be necessary. It is best to check with your employer or HR department to determine if any additional documents are required for a leave extension request. 

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