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Comment by ex3xu | Hacker News Reader

Sounds like you're looking to go on sabbatical? A lot of bigger companies have active sabbatical leave policies. If you're happy with your current company, you could talk to HR and see their position on it, as I think it's becoming a fairly common practice in tech and elsewhere.

https://blog.trello.com/sabbatical-leave

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Yes, you can call it that but I haven't been in my current position long enough to qualify for a sabbatical. Also, the sabbatical is only like for a few weeks. I feel that doesnt fit with my notion of a longer-term break.

Not sure how sabbatical works in your company. At least in mine we have possibility of 3 months to 6 months sabbatical where we get 75% paid during the sabbatical and 75% after until the 6 month gap fills itself in terms of pay.

Most companies also have unpaid LOA (leave of absence). Also, you might be able to talk to your boss (or bosses boss) to see if they can make it happen.

I know people who quit without having another gig lined up. Haven't done it myself.

Curious, what does an LOA give you? I dont suppose you get paid or still get health insurance. Is it just a stopping of payroll/benefits and resuming it once you are back?

Legally, I guess it depends on the state and country. If a company approves a LOA but changes its mind, perhaps that would be counted as a termination and make the person eligible for severance, unemployment, etc. I'm not a lawyer and this is tricky stuff. But from a human perspective, there is some expectation that HR or the manager would try to help the employee return back after the LOA.

Thanks for the valuable input!

That's a great benefit! We do get paid during the sabbatical but they are a growing company so I don't think they feel they can afford to make it that long, but they recognize the good that time off brings.

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