I am a caregiver for my grandfather do I need to let my employer know?

Question

I am a caregiver for my grandfather do I need to let my employer know?

Answer

It depends. Are you seeking time off from work to take care of your grandfather? If so, you need to check with your company to see what leave options you have which could include unpaid time off pursuant to the FMLA. Although the FMLA allows unpaid time off to care for a sick parent, spouse or child (in addition to yourself), it does not specifically protect for time off to care for a grandparent with a serious medical condition. However, if the grandparent raised you and has served as more of a "parent," you would have a good argument that you should be entitled to time off pursuant to the FMLA. Additionally, if the grandparent's illness has caused you depression and/or anxiety (for which you are under doctor's care), you could take FMLA time off.