The Letter of Intent for Maternity Leave is a crucial document in the United States employment landscape, designed to initiate the formal process of requesting and documenting maternity leave arrangements. This document is typically used when an employee needs to notify their employer of their pregnancy and intention to take maternity leave, ideally provided several months before the anticipated leave start date. It ensures compliance with federal regulations, particularly the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), while also accounting for any applicable state-specific leave laws. The letter should be submitted to both direct management and HR departments, serving as an official record of the leave request and helping organizations plan for temporary coverage of the employee's responsibilities. It forms the basis for subsequent discussions about leave arrangements, benefits continuation, and return-to-work planning.

1. Employee Information: Employee's full name, position, department, and employee ID

2. Notification of Intent: Clear statement of intention to take maternity leave

3. Leave Duration: Anticipated start and end dates of the maternity leave

4. FMLA Eligibility Statement: Confirmation of eligibility under FMLA requirements

5. Return to Work Plan: Anticipated return date and any known transition plans

6. Benefits Continuation: Statement regarding continuation of health benefits during leave

7. Contact Information: Emergency contact details and preferred method of communication during leave