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University of Minnesota

Military Leave Frequently Asked Questions from Employees

1. Where can I find policy-related information regarding military leaves of absence?

Policy information related to military leaves of absence can be found in the following governing documents and contracts:

2. What other information is available regarding military leaves of absence?
3. If federal or state regulations differ from language in the policies, rules, contracts, which information takes precedence?
The law supercedes any contract, rule or policy language to the contrary except in cases where the policies, rules and contracts provide for benefits beyond those prescribed by law.
4. What is the purpose behind the military leave of absence policies?

Military leaves policy language found in policies, rules, and contracts provides that military leave, whether taken for training purposes or for active duty will:

  1. Be an authorized leave of absence from the University;
  2. Allow for a portion of the leave of absence to be paid per federal and state regulations and respective governing documents; and
  3. Provide for reinstatement rights of the employee per federal and state regulations and respective governing documents.
5. What provisions are made regarding employee benefits?

Two documents noted below describe the availability of responsibilities associated with and handling of employee benefits, including, but not limited to, medical, dental and basic life coverage, dependent medical and dental coverage, short-term and long-term disability insurance and retirement plans.

6. Who is covered under the University's military leave policies?

Any current regular employee including faculty, academic professional and administrative staff (93xx, 96xx, 97xx) professionals in training, graduate assistants, civil service and represented bargaining unit staff who is a member of:

  • The Minnesota National Guard and Reserve or
  • An armed forces branch of the United States military (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard)

In addition, any current employee who volunteers or who is ordered into active military service as part of a presidential call-up would be covered under the University’s policies.

7. What is the process for requesting a military leave of absence?
  • If you receive military orders, you should provide a written request for leave and meet with the responsible administrator or your supervisor. Written orders should be brought with you so that a copy can be made for inclusion in your personnel file.
  • Leave information should also be provided to Employee Benefits. Employee Benefits staff will review how the provision of benefits under the various University plans are affected by the leave of absence.
8. I have been called up for active service. How is this going to affect my employment status?
You will be granted an approved leave of absence from the University to enable you to comply with your military orders. For information regarding leave duration with and without pay, vacation earning rate, vacation and sick leave earnings, seniority earnings, retirement years of service credited upon reinstatement, refer to the OHR Fact Sheet: Military Policy Information Summary (pdf).
9. I still have questions. Who should I contact?
  • For questions concerning policy, your rights and responsibilities, etc., contact your unit HR Professional first, then your central human resources consultant as appropriate.
  • For questions regarding benefits, contact Employee Benefits at 612-624-9090 and press option 2, to speak with an employee benefits consultant.

Office of Human Resources