In this article, we will guide you through the process of filing for bereavement leave with Walmart. We understand that dealing with the loss of a loved one is a difficult time, and navigating through your company’s leave policies may add to the stress. Therefore, we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to help you understand Walmart’s bereavement policy, eligibility criteria, and the steps you need to take to request bereavement leave.
To file for bereavement leave with Walmart, you need to call Sedgwick, Walmart’s third-party administrator, at 800-492-5678 or visit mySedgwick to complete a formal request. Walmart offers up to three days of paid bereavement leave for the loss of an immediate family member, and all employees, regardless of their work hours, are eligible. If more time is needed, you can request a Personal Leave of Absence or use your Paid Time Off (PTO) or vacation days.
Understanding Walmart’s Bereavement Policy
Walmart’s bereavement policy allows employees to take up to three days of paid bereavement leave in the event of the death of an immediate family member. Walmart defines immediate family members as siblings, parents, grandparents, children, or significant others. If the deceased is not an immediate family member, such as an aunt or uncle, employees will need to discuss their situation with their manager.
Who is Eligible?
All Walmart employees, regardless of their work hours per week, are eligible for the same three-day paid bereavement leave. Walmart’s bereavement policy also covers a broad range of family members, including step-children, step-parents, and in-laws.
Initiating the Bereavement Leave Process
To initiate the process of filing for bereavement leave at Walmart, you need to follow these steps:
- Call Sedgwick, Walmart’s third-party administrator, at 800-492-5678 or visit mySedgwick to complete a formal request for bereavement leave.
- Sedgwick will check your eligibility, send your request for approval to your store location, and record and track your leave.
It’s recommended to request bereavement leave as soon as possible after learning of the death. This allows your manager to make arrangements for your absence. If you need more time off, consider requesting a Personal Leave of Absence.
Documentation or Proof Required
The required documentation or proof may vary depending on the employer’s policy. Some employers may ask for proof of the death, such as an obituary, funeral notice, or death certificate. However, not all employers require documentation, and some may consider it insensitive to ask for proof during such a difficult time. Always check your employer’s bereavement leave policy to understand the specific requirements and procedures for requesting leave.
What if You Need More Time?
If you require more time off than the standard three days of bereavement leave, you can request a Personal Leave of Absence for a longer period, although this extended leave is generally unpaid. You can also discuss the possibility of using your Paid Time Off (PTO) or vacation days.
Support Offered by Walmart
Aside from providing up to three days of paid bereavement leave, Walmart offers various resources and support to employees going through bereavement. These include grief counseling services, Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), and the Associates in Critical Need Trust, a fund dedicated to assisting associates affected by disasters and other financial hardships, including the death of a loved one.
Conclusion
At Walmart, the well-being of its employees is a top priority. The company understands that the loss of a loved one is a difficult time for any individual, and thus, it provides support in the form of bereavement leave. Remember to communicate openly and honestly with your manager or HR department about your needs during this time. They can help guide you through the process and provide additional resources to help you cope.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sedgwick’s role in Walmart’s bereavement leave policy?
Sedgwick is a third-party administrator for Walmart. They handle the processing of bereavement leave requests, check eligibility, send the request for approval to the employee’s store location, and also record and track the leave.
Does Walmart offer paid bereavement leave for part-time employees?
Yes, Walmart offers the same three-day paid bereavement leave to all its employees, regardless of their work hours per week.
Is the bereavement leave separate from my regular Paid Time Off (PTO)?
Yes, the bereavement leave offered by Walmart is separate from your regular PTO. If you need more time off, you can discuss the possibility of using your PTO or vacation days.
What kind of support does Walmart offer to employees going through bereavement?
Walmart offers a variety of resources to employees going through bereavement. These include grief counseling services, Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), and the Associates in Critical Need Trust, a fund dedicated to assisting associates affected by unexpected financial hardships, including the death of a loved one.
What family members are covered under Walmart’s bereavement policy?
Walmart’s bereavement policy covers a broad range of family members. This includes siblings, parents, grandparents, children, significant others, step-children, step-parents, and in-laws.
