Human Resources

Texas Woman's University Staff Handbook
Employee Benefits: Leave Without Pay

A leave of absence without pay may be granted provided that the interests of the University are given first consideration. A leave of absence without pay is not an inherent right but is the prerogative of the University. An extended leave of absence without pay must be requested in writing through the supervisor to the Office of Human Resources (OHR). The Chancellor and President, upon recommendations from the supervisor, the appropriate Vice President, and the Director of Human Resources, may grant an official leave.

A leave of absence without pay may be granted only after the employee has exhausted all appropriate leave entitlements. Leave without pay may not exceed three (3) months in duration. Failure to return to work upon the expiration of a leave of absence shall result in the employee's termination. This does not apply to employees off on medical leave due to a work related injury.

A leave of absence without pay implies intent from the employee to return to work and intent for the University to return the employee to the former position or to one of similar requirements and compensation upon the expiration of a leave of absence without pay.

An employee on leave for medical reasons must keep supervisors informed of their status and expected return to work date. Medical certification will be periodically required. See TWU OP 50.28 for additional information on Family Medical Leave.

During a leave without pay, benefits related to pay status are affected:

• Employees on leave without pay must make prior arrangements with the OHR to pay insurance premiums to ensure continued insurance coverage.
• Group insurance may be continued provided premiums are paid in advance to the OHR by the employee.
• Vacation, sick leave, and state service accruals are suspended. Membership in the Teacher Retirement System or Optional Retirement Program becomes inactive and contributions cannot be withdrawn.
• An employee is not entitled to receive pay for holidays while on a leave of absence without pay.

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