Maternity Leave Letter — Samples, Templates & How to Write
Create a professional maternity leave letter in seconds. Use our free templates and samples for maternity leave letters to your employer, simple maternity leave letters, or requests for early maternity leave. Learn step-by-step how to write a maternity leave letter that is formal, clear, and HR-approved.
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Maternity Leave Letter Templates & Samples
Standard Request
Maternity leave letter to employer
Best for:
Standard maternity leave requests
Simple & Direct
Simple maternity leave letter
Best for:
Casual workplace or straightforward requests
Early Leave
Early maternity leave letter
Best for:
Requesting leave before due date
Return to Work
Return to work letter after maternity leave
Best for:
Returning to work after leave
How to Write a Maternity Leave Letter
Clear Leave Request
Start with a clear statement requesting maternity leave
Example:
"I am writing to formally request maternity leave for the birth of my child, as per our company policy."
Specify Leave Dates
Include exact start and expected return dates
Example:
"I would like to begin my maternity leave on [Start Date] and plan to return to work on [Return Date]."
Include Reason (Optional)
Briefly mention the reason for leave (birth of child)
Example:
"This leave is for the birth and care of my newborn child."
Request Approval
Formally request approval for your maternity leave
Example:
"Please let me know if you require any additional documentation or information to process this request."
Professional Closing
End with gratitude and professional closing
Example:
"Thank you for your understanding and support during this special time. I look forward to your confirmation."
Maternity Leave Letter Before & After Examples
Weak Example
"I need to take some time off for having a baby."
Professional Example
"I am writing to formally request maternity leave for the birth of my child, beginning on [Start Date] with an expected return date of [Return Date]."
Improvement: Added professional structure and specific dates
Weak Example
"Can I start my leave early?"
Professional Example
"I would like to request early maternity leave starting on [Early Start Date] due to medical recommendations. My original due date is [Due Date], but I need to begin my leave sooner."
Improvement: Made request more formal with clear reason and dates
Weak Example
"I'll be back to work soon."
Professional Example
"I am writing to confirm my return to work after maternity leave. I plan to resume my duties on [Return Date] and look forward to returning to the team."
Improvement: Transformed casual statement into professional return letter
Specialized Maternity Leave Letter Types
Teacher Maternity Leave
Specific template for teachers and educators
- School-specific language
- Academic year alignment
- Substitute teacher plans
Resignation After Leave
Letter for resigning after maternity leave
- Professional resignation
- Childcare focus
- Positive tone
Confirmation Letter
Employer's confirmation of maternity leave
- Official confirmation
- Leave details
- Return expectations
More Free AI Professional Tools
Frequently Asked Questions About Maternity Leave Letters
What is a maternity leave letter?
A maternity leave letter is a formal document submitted to your employer requesting time off for pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum recovery. It serves as official notification of your intended absence, outlines the requested leave dates, and initiates the approval process according to company policies and legal requirements like FMLA (Family and Medical Leave Act).
How do I write a maternity leave letter to my employer?
To write a professional maternity leave letter to your employer, include: 1) A clear statement requesting maternity leave, 2) Specific start and expected return dates, 3) Brief mention of the reason (birth of child), 4) Request for approval, 5) Offer to assist with transition planning, and 6) Professional closing with gratitude. Submit it to both your direct supervisor and HR department.
Can I take early maternity leave?
Yes, you can request early maternity leave if you have medical reasons or complications that require you to stop working before your due date. Your early maternity leave letter should include: your original due date, the early start date you're requesting, the medical reason (if comfortable sharing), and any supporting documentation from your healthcare provider.
How do I write a return to work letter after maternity leave?
A return to work letter after maternity leave should include: confirmation of your return date, expression of gratitude for the leave time, confirmation of your readiness to resume duties, any requests for accommodations (like breastfeeding/pumping space), and contact information for confirmation. Send this to your supervisor and HR 2-3 weeks before your scheduled return.
What if I need to resign after maternity leave?
If you decide to resign after maternity leave, you should submit a resignation letter after maternity leave. This letter should: 1) Clearly state your resignation, 2) Mention your recent maternity leave, 3) Provide appropriate notice period, 4) Express gratitude for the opportunity, and 5) Offer to assist with transition. Be professional and positive to maintain good references.
When should I submit my maternity leave letter?
Submit your maternity leave letter as early as possible, typically at least 30 days before your intended leave start date. This gives your employer adequate time to plan for your absence, arrange coverage, and process the necessary paperwork. If you need early maternity leave due to medical reasons, submit it as soon as the need becomes apparent.