Understanding Time Off in Lieu for Working During Leave

Singapore, Singapore Aug 24, 2026 ALN: In this series, business correspondent Timothy Goh offers practical answers to candid questions on navigating workplace challenges and getting ahead in your career. Get more tips by signing up to The Straits Times’ Headstart newsletter.

Q: Can employees claim time off in lieu if they work to meet a deadline while they are on leave?

Working during annual leave does not necessarily mean “one day worked equals one day off.” This premise raises important considerations for both employees and employers regarding the management of work schedules, employee well-being, and organizational expectations.

To better understand the implications of claiming time off in lieu, it is essential to examine the context of workplace dynamics. Employees often face pressures to meet deadlines, which can sometimes coincide with their scheduled time off. In such cases, the concept of time off in lieu becomes pertinent. It refers to the practice of compensating employees with additional time off for hours worked beyond their regular schedule, particularly during periods designated for rest and recuperation.

According to Tong Liu, a certified senior professional at the Institute for Human Resource Professionals, it is crucial to analyze the circumstances surrounding the need to work during leave. Liu emphasizes that both the necessity of the work and the reasons behind the missed deadline should be evaluated. This dual perspective helps in determining whether the request for time off in lieu is justified.

For employees, Liu suggests that it is reasonable to engage in a conversation with their managers about the possibility of receiving time off in lieu, especially if the work completed during their leave was driven by an urgent business requirement. Open communication can facilitate understanding and potentially lead to a favorable outcome for the employee.

However, Liu also points out the importance of personal accountability. Employees should assess whether they could have managed their workload more effectively prior to taking leave. If the missed deadline was due to poor planning or procrastination, the request for time off in lieu may not be as compelling. This self-reflection is vital for maintaining a professional reputation and fostering a culture of responsibility within the workplace.

From a managerial standpoint, Liu highlights the need for leaders to consider whether the situation necessitating work during leave was genuinely unavoidable. Managers should reflect on whether tasks could have been reprioritized, delegated, or communicated more clearly to avoid encroaching on employees' personal time. This approach not only aids in managing current workloads but also helps in preventing similar situations from arising in the future.

“Ultimately, the focus should be less on counting hours and more on balancing accountability with sustainable performance,” Liu notes. This perspective emphasizes the importance of fostering a work environment that allows employees to disconnect and recharge, thereby enhancing overall productivity and job satisfaction.

Larson Ong, co-founder of creative agency Visual Studio Singapore, concurs with Liu's assessment, stating that it is “absolutely reasonable” for employees to request time off in lieu after working during their annual leave to meet a deadline. However, he cautions that employees should not take for granted that their requests will automatically be granted. The nature of deadlines can vary significantly across different industries, and some may be non-negotiable.

For instance, industries such as MICE (meetings, incentives, conventions, and exhibitions), food and beverage, and emergency services often operate under stringent timelines that require immediate attention and action. Ong illustrates this point by noting that a live event cannot be postponed simply because a team is fatigued or a task is incomplete. In such high-pressure environments, the expectation of occasional overtime and weekend work may be part of the job description.

Despite the demanding nature of certain industries, Ong stresses that even urgent tasks should be managed in a way that respects employees' time off. It is essential for organizations to cultivate a culture that values work-life balance, ensuring that employees do not feel compelled to sacrifice their personal time for the sake of work. This balance is crucial for maintaining employee morale and reducing burnout.

In conclusion, while the concept of time off in lieu serves as a potential remedy for employees who find themselves working during their leave, it is imperative for both employees and managers to engage in open dialogue about the circumstances surrounding such situations. By fostering a culture of accountability, communication, and respect for personal time, organizations can create a healthier work environment that promotes both productivity and employee well-being. As the workforce continues to evolve, addressing these issues will be essential for sustaining a motivated and engaged team.