Off the Clock: Every Kind of Leave You Can (and Should) Take

Let’s be honest, most of us don’t fully understand our company’s leave policy until we really need it.

You might’ve heard terms like earned leave, comp off, or casual leave, but what do they actually mean? And how many of these are you even entitled to?

In India, company leave policies often feel like a black box, filled with vague HR jargon, legal variations by state, and rules that change without notice.

But here’s the truth: Knowing your leave rights is essential, not just for your mental health, but for your pay, your peace of mind, and your work-life balance.

So, here’s a breakdown of the most common types of leave in company policies and why each one matters.

1. Earned Leave (EL)

Also called Privilege Leave, this is the time off you “EARN” by working. Think of it like paid vacation days. You usually accrue 1.5 to 2 days per month, and in most companies, it can be carried forward or encashed.

2. Casual Leave (CL)

These are for quick, unplanned needs, say a family emergency, a day to handle errands, or a short trip. Companies typically offer 7 to 10 CLs a year, and they often lapse if unused.

3. Sick Leave (SL)

Feeling unwell? You’re covered. Sick leave is for genuine medical reasons, and most companies offer 10 to 12 days. Some may ask for a medical certificate after two or more consecutive days off.

4. Maternity & Paternity Leave

Under the Maternity Benefit Act, women employees are eligible for up to 26 weeks of paid leave. Paternity leave isn’t mandatory yet in India, but many progressive companies offer 7–15 days to support new fathers.

5. Compensatory Off (Comp Off)

Worked on a holiday or weekend? You’re entitled to take another day off in return. It’s your right, not a favour.

6. Bereavement Leave, Marriage Leave, Mental Health Days

These aren’t legally required, but more companies are offering them to acknowledge life beyond work and it makes a big difference.

Why Smart Leave Management Needs Smart Software Like iFive HRMS

With so many types of leave in company policies, managing them manually becomes a challenge as teams grow. Miscommunication, policy mismatches, or missed compliance updates can create friction between employees and HR.

That’s where intelligent leave management systems make all the difference. iFive HRMS is designed to take the complexity out of leave tracking. It lets businesses configure region-specific rules, automate accruals, handle approvals seamlessly, and even integrate wellness-centric leaves like mental health.

TL;DR: Leave is your right. Know it. Use it. Normalise it.

Don’t wait for burnout to check your leave balance. Understanding the types of leave in company policies is for every employee who deserves to rest, recover, and live life fully.

Want the full breakdown?

Read: “12 Types of Leave in Company: Every Employee Should Know”