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Antiwork

How to tell boss I’m pregnant at small NGO with no leave policy

Just that. I’m pregnant and I work for a small nonprofit (much too small for FMLA or any other leave policy I’m aware of to apply). There is no employee handbook or manual and no leave policy whatsoever. It’s mainly been if you want some time off you can work a few extra hours one week and a few fewer the next. I think it has been possible to request some time off just you don’t get paid. I have not taken any time off because I can not afford to have a reduced paycheck. Even when there’s a holiday I’ve wanted to take off, like thanksgiving or new year’s, I’ve had to make up the hours I would have worked those days throughout the rest off the week. New executive director just began in November, says she is working with the board to create a leave policy, and gave…


Just that. I’m pregnant and I work for a small nonprofit (much too small for FMLA or any other leave policy I’m aware of to apply). There is no employee handbook or manual and no leave policy whatsoever. It’s mainly been if you want some time off you can work a few extra hours one week and a few fewer the next. I think it has been possible to request some time off just you don’t get paid. I have not taken any time off because I can not afford to have a reduced paycheck. Even when there’s a holiday I’ve wanted to take off, like thanksgiving or new year’s, I’ve had to make up the hours I would have worked those days throughout the rest off the week. New executive director just began in November, says she is working with the board to create a leave policy, and gave us each half a week’s hours off this month so she seems aware. But now I have to let her know I’m pregnant, due in May, because at the moment it looks like I’d have to be working from my hospital bed or not get paid. I’m asking for any tips on how to do this in a professional manner. Thanks in advance!

Edit: I live in the US in Pennsylvania.

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