Long-time employee on vacation... now dealing with FMLA issues

I have a long-time employee who went on vacation at the end of August. She put in the request through our timekeeping app, but she didn’t wait for it to be approved and just went ahead with her trip. While on vacation, she called us from the hospital and said she wouldn’t be back by her expected return date of September 3. We’ve been waiting on FMLA paperwork since then, but nothing’s come through. I’ve asked multiple times, but still no reply. Her performance has been declining, and we’re just waiting for her to retire. Can we let her go? Now she’s mentioning a new injury too…

Wow, sounds like a tough spot. Have you tried giving her a deadline for the FMLA papers? That might help push things along.

Good idea. And maybe remind her of the consequences if she doesn’t get the paperwork in on time? IDK, seems like she’s dragging her feet.

Yeah, I’ve set deadlines but she still isn’t responding. It’s frustrating, especially with her work performance going downhill too.

I don’t get why she didn’t wait for the vacation approval before going… seems like she’s kinda taking advantage.

Exactly! I mean, who just assumes their time off is approved? Especially when it’s not even confirmed!

Some people just don’t think about the rules. Then they end up causing problems for everyone else.

Honestly, with her age and everything, it might be best to just end the working relationship. If she’s not doing her job and not responding to important requests, what’s the point in keeping her on?

That’s what I’m thinking too… but she’s been with us for so long. It’s hard, but at this point, her lack of communication is making it impossible.

Wait, what’s FMLA again? Is that like a form she needs to submit for medical leave?

Yeah, it’s paperwork for family/medical leave. If she doesn’t submit it, it can be seen as her not following company rules.

Got it, thanks! Seems like she’s not handling this well at all.

It’s wild she’s adding a new injury now. Sounds like she’s just making excuses at this point.

Totally agree. How does someone come back with a new issue right when you’re already dealing with another?