Employee and Retiree Service Center → Employees → Leave information → Bereavement Leave

Bereavement Leave

Bereavement leave is based on the family relationship of the employee to the individual who has died. The language in each of the negotiated agreements is the same regarding the family relationships and is summarized below:

Five (5) days -- Child, parent (natural, foster, step or in-law), brother, sister, husband, wife or anyone who has lived regularly in the employee’s household

Two (2) days -- Brother-in-law, sister-in-law, son-in-law, daughter-in-law, grandparent, grandchild or spouse’s grandparent

Only the Leave Administration team in the Employee and Retiree Service Center (ERSC) may grant additional days by for unusual travel or personal obligations. Principals, directors and other administrators are not authorized to grant extended bereavement leave.

Forms for Employee Requesting Bereavement Leave

  • Two or five days or fewer depending on family relationship—Complete MCPS Form 403-1A
  • More than five days—Complete MCPS Form 430-1 (additional documentation will be required)
  • Submit either form to the appropriate administrator.

Procedures for Principal/Supervisor

  • Five days or fewer – Approve leave requests up to the number of days listed above for the death of an individual. Principals, directors, and other administrators can not approve more than 2 days of leave for the death of an individual listed in the two day section above or any days for an individual not listed above.
  • More than five days -- Review leave request and forward to the Leave Administration team in ERSC for approval

Principals/Supervisors should consult with the ERSC Leave Administration team if there are questions about bereavement leave. Frequently asked questions (FAQ) and answers will be posted on the ERSC web site. A copy of the FAQS is attached for your information. If you have questions, please call the Employee and Retiree Service Center at 301 517-8100.

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to your bereavement leave questions