If you plan to use Family and Medical Leave (FMLA), Military Leave (USERRA) or Victims Economic Security and Safety Act Leave (VESSA) there are several steps that you can take to make the process easier for you, your family and your leader. Follow this guide to get started.

1. Call The Hartford at (888) 277-4767, submit online through The Hartford’s leave portal or email GBInformationUpload@thehartford.com and begin the process of submitting a claim. You will need:
   • Name, address and other key identification information
   • Name of your department and last full day of active work
   • The nature of your claim or leave request
   • Your treating physician’s name, address, phone and fax numbers
   • The Carle Foundation policy number- 676300
2. Notify your leader of your absence with specific dates about when you will be unable to work.
3. Ensure that documentation is turned into to The Hartford.
   • For a medical leave, medical certification will need to be provided from the provider’s office to The Hartford.
   • For Military Leave and VESSA Leave, the documentation will vary based on the type of leave.
4. For continuous leave, please let your leader and Human Resources know how you want to get paid during your absence. For example, you may be able to use earned paid leave or sick bank time.
5. On the day your leave begins, documentation will need to be provided to The Hartford to confirm the medical condition.  You can use the Work Status Form or the physician’s office can provide you a detailed letter with the same information provided. 
6. Once all your applicable and specific documentation is properly completed, a decision about your leave will be made.

* Note when you reach out to your provider, they have up to 10 days to provide the documentation for your leave. The Hartford then has up to 7 days to review and approve your leave request. Please plan ahead. 

You are encouraged to share this information with your family members or other members of your care team who will be assisting you during your leave.

1. Keep The Hartford informed of any changes to your leave.
   • After doctor’s appointments, please call The Hartford (888) 277-4767 and provide updates and changes to your leave.
     • The more specific the information is the better. For example, use June 1 instead of two to three weeks.
   • Stay up to date on your leave status, usage approvals or ask a question when you log in to your account online at https://abilityadvantage.thehartford.COM/
2. Keep your leader informed about the date you will return and any restrictions that you may have when you return.

1. Obtain a doctor’s note that releases you from leave.
   • Please include the specific date that you can you can return.
   • Please include if you can return with or without restrictions.
2. Share your doctor’s note with The Hartford and with your leader.

* Note that if you are returning with restrictions and need accommodations, your leader may need to make special arrangements for your work.

If you have questions about your leave, or about the new requirements, contact the Human Resources Service Center at (217) 902-5300 or myhr.helpdesk@carle.com

ADDITIONAL ARTICLES

• Leaves of Absence