Grief and support
Should I take time off work after a bereavement?
Short answer
Yes, if you can. Most employers offer bereavement leave — ask HR what applies. There is no legal minimum bereavement leave requirement in California for private employers (as of 2024 AB 1949, employers with 5+ employees must provide up to 5 days)…
What this usually means
Yes, if you can. Most employers offer bereavement leave — ask HR what applies. There is no legal minimum bereavement leave requirement in California for private employers (as of 2024 AB 1949, employers with 5+ employees must provide up to 5 days). Return when you are stable, not because the calendar says so.
What to do next
- Start the PathAfter checklist for situation-aware first steps.
- Find California county help for coroner contacts, vital records, cost tools, and paperwork.
- Open the First 72 Hours Call Log before making calls.
- Open the Documents to Find Checklist when you are ready for paperwork.