Because your letter should include a proposal for how your work should be handled, writing one can take time and planning. I am writing to you about your maternity leave and pay. you’re pregnant; the date of the week your baby is due (your employer can ask to see a medical certificate or 'MAT B1 form' – you get this from your doctor or midwife once you’re 20 weeks’ pregnant) the date you want to start maternity leave; It’s a good idea to put this in an email or letter, as your employer might want it in writing. Tell me when I can get my MATB1 form and who from Maternity Leave Letter template Dear [name of your employer/manager] Your intended date for leaving and the date you plan to return by. This letter is written by an expectant woman who needs time off from work. You will not be able to give this notice until you receive your MATB1 maternity certificate which will be issued by your midwife or GP once you are at least 20 weeks’ pregnant. A maternity leave letter is written when a female employee wants to request her employer for time off to prepare for the coming of the baby or she needs some rest. It also ensures that everyone understands the dates of your absence and how your workload will be managed in your absence. You’ll need to give this letter to your employer no later than 15 weeks before your due date, along with your MATB1. Email/letter to employer to give notice for maternity leave and pay You must give this notice to your employer before the end of the 15 th week before your baby is due at the latest. Employee Maternity Leave Letter Writing Tips First and foremost, it is vital to inform the concerned person about your pregnancy and due date of delivery. Most employers have policies that allow female employees maternity leave. What to include in your maternity leave letter There are some important things to include in your letter of notice to your employer: Your name, address and date of mailing the letter. As we have discussed, you are eligible for 26 weeks’ ordinary maternity leave / 52 weeks’ maternity leave (26 weeks’ ordinary maternity leave plus 26 weeks’ additional maternity leave) A maternity leave request letter, when properly written, is a great way to set expectations for all involved so that once your newborn arrives you're able to place the appropriate focus on new parenthood and bonding, worry-free, with your little one. You must mention the period for which you would like to take your maternity leaves. You must … Hand in your letter ASAP: It’s advisable to hand in your maternity leave letter as soon as you have the all-clear from your midwife that you’re in your pregnancy’s safe period (this is usually after three months have passed). By law, you should tell your employer that you are pregnant no later than 15 weeks before your baby is due. A maternity leave letter is a professional way to communicate with your employer that you intend to take maternity leave at the end of a pregnancy.