Personal leave policy (Wisconsin): Free template

Personal leave policy (Wisconsin): Free template

Personal leave policy (Wisconsin)

A personal leave policy helps Wisconsin businesses provide employees with time off for personal reasons, such as illness, family emergencies, or personal matters that are not covered by other types of leave. This policy outlines the eligibility, procedures, and guidelines for requesting and managing personal leave, ensuring that the business operates smoothly while supporting employees’ needs.

By implementing this policy, businesses can support work-life balance, ensure fairness, and maintain operational continuity.

How to use this personal leave policy (Wisconsin)

  • Define eligibility: Specify which employees are eligible for personal leave, such as full-time or part-time employees, and outline any waiting period or other conditions for eligibility.
  • Outline leave procedures: Detail the process for requesting personal leave, including how much notice employees must give, what documentation is required (if any), and who to notify when requesting leave.
  • Set leave duration: Define how long personal leave can be taken, whether there are limits on the number of days, and if the leave is paid or unpaid.
  • Address job protection: Ensure that employees can return to their original or a similar position after taking personal leave, without fear of retaliation.
  • Clarify benefits during leave: Specify whether employees will continue to receive benefits such as health insurance during their leave period, and if they need to pay a portion of the premiums.
  • Monitor compliance: Ensure that personal leave is used in accordance with company guidelines and that the business can manage staffing levels during employees’ time off.

Benefits of using this personal leave policy (Wisconsin)

This policy offers several benefits for Wisconsin businesses:

  • Supports employee well-being: Provides employees with the flexibility to take time off for personal reasons, which can help reduce stress and improve overall job satisfaction.
  • Promotes fairness: Ensures that all employees are treated consistently when requesting personal leave, promoting fairness across the organization.
  • Reduces absenteeism: By offering personal leave, employees may be less likely to take unplanned absences, which can reduce disruptions to business operations.
  • Improves compliance: Helps enhance compliance with Wisconsin state laws and federal regulations regarding employee rights to take time off.
  • Improves employee retention: Offering personal leave as part of an employee benefits package can enhance loyalty and retention, as employees feel valued and supported.

Tips for using this personal leave policy (Wisconsin)

  • Communicate the policy clearly: Ensure that employees understand the eligibility, procedures, and guidelines for requesting and using personal leave.
  • Keep accurate records: Track personal leave requests and usage to ensure that employees do not exceed their allotted time off.
  • Plan for coverage: Ensure that work is managed appropriately during an employee’s personal leave to minimize disruption and maintain productivity.
  • Monitor compliance: Ensure that personal leave is being used appropriately and fairly across the organization.
  • Review regularly: Update the policy as needed to reflect changes in Wisconsin laws, business practices, or employee needs.

Q: Why is a personal leave policy important for my business?

A: This policy ensures that employees have the flexibility to take time off for personal reasons while maintaining fairness, supporting legal compliance, and operational continuity.

Q: Who is eligible for personal leave under this policy?

A: Eligibility typically depends on employment status (full-time or part-time), length of service, and any other company-specific criteria outlined in the policy.

Q: How much notice do employees need to give when requesting personal leave?

A: The policy should specify the required notice period, typically ranging from a few days to a week, depending on the situation and the type of leave being requested.

Q: Is personal leave paid or unpaid?

A: The policy should clarify whether personal leave is paid or unpaid, and whether employees can use accrued paid time off (PTO) for personal leave.

Q: How often should this policy be reviewed?

A: This policy should be reviewed annually or whenever there are changes in Wisconsin labor laws, company practices, or employee needs to ensure it remains effective and compliant.


This article contains general legal information and does not contain legal advice. Cobrief is not a law firm or a substitute for an attorney or law firm. The law is complex and changes often. For legal advice, please ask a lawyer.