Real Talk
What You Need To Know About the Solo Parent Leave
For single parents, a break is also needed. Here’s what you need to know about the Solo Parent Leave.
Being a solo parent can be tough. This is especially when you’re working and attending to your kids’ needs at the same time. But like everyone else, a parent needs rest and time to recharge from work. Through the years, lawmakers have been updating and discussing laws that can help single parents. Aside from the solo parent ID, single parents can now also avail of the solo parent leave.
The solo parent leave is no new law. The solo parent leave is actually part of RA 8972 known as the Act Providing for Benefits and Privileges to Solo Parents and their Children. Here’s why it’s important for solo parents to know about the leave.
The benefits it provides
As written under RA 8972, solo parents are qualified for a comprehensive package. This is defined by government sectors set by the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA).
On top of the benefits from the government, a solo parent who would like to go on leave will not have to worry about deductions. Under the law, it says that solo parents can apply for a leave “of not more than seven (7) working days every year shall be granted to any solo parent employee who has rendered service of at least one (1) year.”
But for the parent to get the benefit, he/she must not only have rendered one year of service at work but also do the following:
- notify the employer of when he or she will avail of the leave within the period of time;
- must present the solo ID which can be obtained from any DSWD center.
Why is the leave important one may ask? While solo parents know the value of working for their children, the state recognizes that the solo parent leave will help them be there for their kids physically when they need them the most.
Time for oneself
Since laws have been passed for solo or single parents, it’s very important to know that society must not discriminate against them anymore. Especially when seeking employment. Like the traditional parenting setup, single parents also have the right to take some time off to be with their kids.
For single parents, it’s very important that you know your rights both as a parent and employee. Always remember that when you are not sure, consult your HR department for the benefits you’ll get from work.
More about solo parent rules!
7 Tips to Survive the Week as a Solo Parent
