It is no secret that Walmart is not the most beloved company on the planet. But even they have a heart. Recently, the superstore announced a new Bereavement Policy, which will allow employees to take time off work following the death of an immediate family member.
This is great news for those who have recently lost a loved one, as it will allow them time to mourn and adjust to their new life. While they may not be everyone’s favorite store, I think we can all agree that this policy is a step in the right direction. Kudos to them for being more compassionate and understanding!
So, let’s learn more about the Walmart Bereavement Policy.
What Is A Bereavement Policy?
A bereavement policy is a set of guidelines that an employer provides to employees regarding what to do in the event of a death in the family.
The policy will typically outline how much time off an employee is entitled to, as well as any other benefits or support that the company may offer. Many employers have different policies for different types of family members, so it is important to check with your HR department to see what your company’s policy is.
What Does Walmart’s Bereavement Policy Include?
Walmart’s new bereavement policy allows employees to take a maximum of three days of paid leave following the death of an immediate family member. This includes spouses, children, parents, siblings, and grandparents. In the event of a death of a non-immediate family member, such as an aunt or uncle, employees will have to discuss it with their manager.
In addition to time off, Walmart also offers other resources and support to employees who are grieving; the access to these, however, is dependent on your position and store. This may include access to counseling services, financial assistance, and bereavement leave for travel.
Can you Take Longer than Three Days Off?
If you need more than three days off, you can request additional unpaid leave from your manager. However, this is at the discretion of the manager and is not guaranteed. Personal leaves of absence are not paid the same as paid vacation days, but they do protect your job while you are away.
What If I Don’t Have Any Immediate Family?
If you do not have any immediate family, you can still take advantage of Walmart’s bereavement policy. Employees who have close friends or significant others that have passed away can speak to their manager to discuss options. Most will be sympathetic and understanding and will likely give you the time off that you need.
Walmart Bereavement Policy – When Should You Request Bereavement Leave?
You should request bereavement leave as soon as possible after learning of the death. This will allow your manager to make arrangements for coverage while you are away. If you wait too long, it may be difficult for them to find someone to fill in for you, and they may not be as flexible.
What Do Other Companies Offer?
While Walmart’s bereavement policy is certainly more generous than most, there are a few other companies out there that offer similar benefits. For example, Starbucks provides up to two weeks of paid leave for employees who have lost an immediate family member. And Google offers a “death benefit” of $1,000 to cover funeral expenses.
What if My Employer Doesn’t Offer a Bereavement Policy?
If your employer does not offer a bereavement policy, you may still be able to take time off under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA).
This act entitles eligible employees to up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave per year for certain qualifying situations, including the death of a family member. However, not all employers are required to comply with the FMLA, so it is important to check with your HR department to see if you are eligible.
What Is The Law On Bereavement Leave?
There is no federal law in the United States that requires employers to offer bereavement leave. However, some states have their own laws on the matter. For example, California requires employers to provide up to two days of bereavement leave for the death of an immediate family member.
How To Spend Your Bereavement Leave
While it is important to take the time you need to grieve, there are a few things you can do to make the most of your bereavement leave.
Here are a few ideas:
- Spend time with family and friends.
- Make arrangements for the funeral or memorial service.
- Take care of any legal or financial matters that need to be overseen.
- Start a journal to help you process your emotions.
- Take some time for yourself – go for a walk, read a book, or take a relaxing bath.
- Seek out counseling or therapy if you are struggling to cope.
- Talk to your manager about returning to work – they may be able to offer some flexibility or accommodations.
- Sort out your benefits with your HR department – they can help you understand what you are entitled to and how to access them.
- Keep in mind that it is okay to take your time – there is no timeline for grief, so do not try to force yourself to “get over it” too quickly.
No matter how you choose to spend your bereavement leave, remember that it is important to take the time you need to heal. Do not be afraid to ask for help from your friends and family. Reach out to a counselor if you are struggling to cope.
More Working Policies You Should Know!
Before you apply at Walmart, you should learn more about the Walmart Late Policy and for the hours and rates, Does Walmart Pay Weekly, or depending on your age, Does Walmart Hire At 16? And hopefully, you won’t need it, but it’s still useful to be aware of the Walmart Firing And Termination Policy in 2023.
Next, let’s move on to our in-depth guide to the Walmart Application, as well as the most common Walmart Interview Questions and Walmart Cashier Interview Questions to make sure you’re fully prepared for the big day!
Lastly, you’ll need to pass a test after your interview, so I suggest finding out What Happens If You Fail The Walmart Assessment Test; and to impress the big boss, take a look at the Walmart Dress Code and What Are The Walmart Intercom Codes? Or, for your first day, find out How Long Is Orientation At Walmart?
Walmart Bereavement Policy – Final Thoughts
The bereavement policy at Walmart is not the most generous on offer; however, it is better than nothing. If you are in the unfortunate position of having to take advantage of the policy, be sure to request leave as soon as possible and be mindful of how you spend your time off. Other companies offer more generous policies, but they are by no means the norm.
If your employer does not offer a bereavement policy, you may still be able to take time off under the Family and Medical Leave Act.
Sorry for your loss, and all the best for the future!
