Suffering Grief or Loss

Home Life Events Suffering Grief or Loss

Experiencing the loss of a loved one can be an incredibly difficult time. While navigating grief is personal, you don’t have to manage everything on your own. There are resources and benefits available to help support you and your family as you take the time you need.

Steps to Get Started

1. Understand your bereavement leave options

Full-time employees may take up to five days of paid bereavement leave following the death of an immediate family member, such as a spouse, child, parent, grandparent, or in-law. Up to three days of leave are available for certain extended family members. With manager approval, you may also use available PTO or request unpaid leave if additional time is needed.

2. Access emotional and counseling support

Support is available if you need someone to talk to. The Employee Assistance Program through Telus Health can connect you with counseling services and helpful resources. You may also have access to behavioral health services through your Anthem medical plan.

3. Update your benefits if needed

In the event of the loss of a dependent, you must update your benefit elections within 30 business days of the event. Taking action within this window ensures your coverage remains accurate and avoids potential issues.

4. Review and update beneficiary designations

This may also be a good time to review your current beneficiary designations for benefits such as life insurance and retirement accounts to ensure they reflect your wishes.