Stanford
Cardinal at Work

Steps for Taking Leave

Ensure your leave of absence goes smoothly by reviewing the steps below.

1. Work with your HR Manager to determine the type of leave you need to take

Meet with your HR Manager and review the different types of leave to decide which leave is most appropriate for your particular situation. If you are interested in learning more about Maternity Leave, consider attending the Maternity & Child Care Benefits Workshop.

For Faculty Leaves, refer to the Faculty Handbook.

2. Notify your supervisor or manager

Notify your manager regarding the type of leave you want to take. If you are planning a leave in advance, such as a pregnancy leave or elective surgery, tell your manager at least 30 days before the intended start of your leave. Estimate your expected leave dates to the best of your knowledge. Note that for maternity leave, you can request a Maternity Leave Calculation within 60 days of your due date to better plan for how long you’ll be away.

3. Open a claim

AbsenceOne is Stanford's disability administrator. You can start a claim online or by calling (866-566-1906).

Get started online: My Leaves

When you report your claim, have these materials ready:

  • The reason you are taking a leave
  • The last day you will work, the first day you will be absent from work, and your anticipated date of return
  • Your physician or medical care provider’s contact information

When you open a claim, you can choose your communications preferences -- by mail or email -- and an initial information packet will be sent to you with important details. To avoid any delays download and sign the Authorization to Release Information form sent in the packet. 

If you are eligible for Family and Medical Leave (FMLA) and you have filed a disability or paid family leave claim, your FMLA will be filed to run concurrently.

4. Review and change your benefits, if necessary

5. Keep us updated

Notify AbsenceOne and your manager if anything changes during your leave, including if your return to work will be:

  • Earlier or later than anticipated;
  • With restrictions; or,
  • On a part-time schedule until you are ready to return to your full duties.

6. Return to work

It is important to prepare for a smooth return to work. At least one week before you plan to return to work, confirm your return to work date with AbsenceOne and your manager. They will be able to help you with the transition back to work, and to verify they have everything they need for your return. You may also want to read the Maternity & Expectant Parents page from the WorkLife Office, which includes many resources about lactation accommodation, child care and back-up care, financial assistance, and workshops for new parents such as BABBLE: Back After Baby Bonding Leave Ends.