Annual leave is time off with pay that may be used for vacations, rest and relaxation, and personal business or emergencies.

May a supervisor deny a request for annual leave?

Yes. Although employees have a right to take annual leave, if your services are needed at work, your request for annual leave may be denied and will have to be rescheduled.

How much annual leave may I carry over from one leave year to the next?

Employees stationed within the United States can carry over a maximum 240 hours of annual leave into the new leave year. Any accrued annual leave in excess of the maximum allowed by law will be forfeited.

Can my supervisor advance annual leave to me?

Yes, supervisors may grant an advance of annual leave consistent with agency policy. The amount of annual leave that may be advanced is limited to the amount of annual leave an employee would accrue in the remainder of the leave year. When an employee who is indebted for advance annual leave separates from Federal service, he or she is required to refund the amount of advance leave for which he or she is indebted.

What happens if I still have annual leave on the books when I resign or retire?

You will receive a lump sum payment for the value of your annual leave.