IRS Form 10837 – In today’s unpredictable world, emergencies like severe weather or safety threats can disrupt work routines, especially for federal employees. If you’re an IRS employee facing such challenges, IRS Form 10837 serves as a key tool for requesting weather and safety leave (WSL). This form allows you to seek excused absence without dipping into your personal leave balances. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore what IRS Form 10837 is, who can use it, how to fill it out, and important considerations for submission. Whether you’re dealing with a snowstorm, flood, or other emergency, understanding this form can help ensure you’re supported during crises.
What Is IRS Form 10837 and Its Purpose?
IRS Form 10837, officially titled “Request for Weather and Safety Leave Due to Emergency Conditions,” is an optional document designed for IRS employees to request administrative leave during emergencies. This form falls under the broader category of excused absences, allowing employees to stay home or away from work when conditions make it unsafe or impossible to report.
The primary purpose of the form is to document requests for weather and safety leave, which is a type of paid administrative leave granted under specific emergency scenarios. Unlike annual or sick leave, WSL doesn’t reduce your accrued time off—it’s essentially paid time away due to circumstances beyond your control. This aligns with federal guidelines under the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) and IRS-specific policies outlined in the Internal Revenue Manual (IRM).
Key emergencies covered include:
- Severe weather events like hurricanes, blizzards, or floods.
- Safety issues such as building evacuations, power outages, or threats like terrorist activities.
- Situations where travel to work is hazardous, even if the office remains open.
The form was last revised in February 2025, ensuring it reflects current federal leave policies. You can download the latest version directly from the IRS website: IRS Form 10837 PDF.
Who Is Eligible for Weather and Safety Leave Using Form 10837?
Eligibility for weather and safety leave primarily applies to IRS employees, including those in telework arrangements. However, the specifics depend on your work situation:
- Non-Telework Employees: If your office is closed due to weather or safety issues, you may automatically qualify for WSL without needing to request it formally. For partial closures (e.g., early dismissal or delayed arrival), the form helps document the time affected.
- Telework Employees: If you’re scheduled to telework but emergency conditions make your home workspace unsafe (e.g., no power or structural damage), you can request WSL. You must provide supporting documentation, such as Form 10837, to your manager.
- All Employees: If the office is open but you can’t safely commute, or if you’re expected to work but face unforeseen emergencies, the form supports your claim.
Note that WSL is not guaranteed—approvals are at the discretion of your manager and must align with IRS policies. It’s also not intended for routine bad weather; it applies to genuine emergencies that pose risks.
How to Fill Out IRS Form 10837: Step-by-Step Guide?
While Form 10837 is optional—employees can use other documentation like emails or memos—using it streamlines the process. Based on IRS guidelines, here’s how to complete it effectively:
- Employee Information: Enter your full name, position, contact details, and employee ID. This ensures the request is tied to your records.
- Emergency Details: Describe the emergency condition in detail. Include the date, time, and nature of the event (e.g., “Heavy snowfall on February 10, 2026, causing road closures and unsafe travel”).
- Requested Leave Period: Specify the start and end times of the leave requested. For full days, note the entire workday; for partial, indicate hours.
- Supporting Evidence: Attach or reference any proof, such as weather reports, news articles, or photos of conditions. This strengthens your case, especially for teleworkers.
- Manager Approval Section: Leave this for your supervisor to review, approve, or deny. Include space for comments if needed.
- Submission: Sign and date the form, then submit it to your manager promptly. Digital signatures may be accepted depending on IRS protocols.
If you’re unsure about any section, refer to the IRM 6.630.4 for detailed instructions on administrative leaves. Remember, timely submission is crucial—ideally, request WSL as soon as the emergency arises.
Time Accounting and Documentation for Weather and Safety Leave
Once approved, WSL is recorded using specific time and attendance codes to ensure accurate payroll processing:
| Code | Description | Typical Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| 990-59511 | Weather and Safety Leave – Office Closed, Severe Weather | Full or partial office closure due to weather (non-teleworkers). |
| 990-59512 | Weather and Safety Leave – Office Closed, Other Building Issue | Closures due to non-weather safety issues like utility failures. |
| 990-59513 | Weather and Safety Leave – Office Open, Cannot Safely Report | When travel is unsafe despite the office being open. |
| 990-59514 | Weather and Safety Leave – Telework Site Unsafe, Office Closed | For teleworkers when home is unsafe and office is closed. |
These codes help track leave without affecting your regular pay. If your request is denied, you may need to use annual leave, sick leave, or leave without pay instead.
Common Scenarios and Tips for Using Form 10837
- During Natural Disasters: If a hurricane forces office closure, non-teleworkers might not need the form, but documenting via Form 10837 provides a record.
- Telework Challenges: Power outages at home? Use the form to explain why you couldn’t work remotely.
- Union Considerations: IRS employees represented by the National Treasury Employees Union (NTEU) may have additional protections; check union resources for guidance.
- Best Practices: Always communicate with your supervisor early. Keep copies of all submissions for your records.
Frequently Asked Questions About IRS Form 10837
- Is Form 10837 mandatory? No, it’s optional, but recommended for clear documentation.
- How long can WSL last? It depends on the emergency; typically, it’s for the duration of the unsafe conditions.
- What if I’m denied? Discuss alternatives with your manager or HR.
- Where to get more help? Visit IRS.gov or contact your local HR department.
Conclusion: Stay Prepared with IRS Form 10837
Navigating emergencies doesn’t have to add stress to your work life. IRS Form 10837 empowers employees to request necessary leave while maintaining productivity and safety. By using this form and following IRS guidelines, you can focus on what’s important—your well-being. For the most up-to-date information, always refer to official IRS sources. Download the form today and be ready for whatever comes your way.