Starbucks Bereavement Policy, Paid Leave for Loss
Starbucks refers to its employees as partners because the company believes they shape the Starbucks Experience. Their work is guided by “The Way We Work,” which emphasizes respect, dignity and support for partners. Understanding the Starbucks bereavement policy helps partners plan for difficult times. In this article you will learn how many days you get, who is eligible, and how to request paid leave when you lose a loved one.
The focus keyword Starbucks bereavement policy appears early to help searchers find relevant information. This guide also mentions the Starbucks partner portal, Starbucks Teamworks scheduling platform, My Partner Info, and other benefits like the weekly coffee markout and tuition reimbursement. You will also see synonyms such as compassionate leave, funeral leave, and paid bereavement days. The aim is to provide complete guidance for U.S. baristas, shift supervisors and managers.
What Is Bereavement Leave and Why It Matters
Bereavement leave, sometimes called compassionate leave, is time off granted when a family member dies. It allows you to attend funerals, take care of arrangements and grieve without worrying about missing pay. Starbucks recognizes that mourning is part of being human and integrates bereavement into its benefits. This policy reflects the company’s commitment to partner well‑being. Additionally, it aligns with the green apron values— creating a supportive workplace where partners can take care of themselves and their families.
Connection to the Partner Hours App and Teamworks
When you need bereavement leave, you will likely use the Starbucks Teamworks app or partner hours portal to request time away. Teamworks lets partners see schedules, swap shifts and request time off. The partner hours app connects to My Partner Info (MPI), where you access pay stubs and tax documents. Familiarity with these platforms makes the leave request smoother. In later sections we explain step‑by‑step how to submit a bereavement request through the portal.
How Many Days Does Starbucks Bereavement Policy Offer?
U.S. Partners
For U.S. partners, Starbucks provides two paid days off when an eligible family member dies. If you must travel overnight for the funeral, you receive four paid days. These days are in addition to vacation, sick time and other leaves. The policy applies to baristas, shift supervisors, assistant store managers and store managers across company‑operated stores. Starbucks notes that bereavement time begins on the date of death or on the date you start travelling to attend services. Travel days cover one day for departure and one day for return.
If local or state laws provide more generous bereavement entitlements, Starbucks will comply with those laws. Partners in states like Oregon or Washington may have additional leave rights. Unionized stores may also negotiate separate provisions. Always check local regulations and your manager’s guidance.
Asia Pacific (APAC) Partners
Starbucks partners in the Asia Pacific region have a longer compassionate leave. The APAC benefits site states that all partners are eligible for five days of bereavement when an eligible family member passes away. The policy lists eligible relatives: spouse, child, parents, siblings, parents‑in‑law, grandparents and grandchildren. This region includes countries like Hong Kong, Singapore and Thailand. The generous five‑day allowance recognizes cultural practices that may involve extended mourning and family rituals.
Canada and Other Regions
In Canada, the Starbucks benefits site notes that the company understands the importance of time away, including vacation, sick time and bereavement. However, it does not specify a fixed number of paid days. Instead, bereavement entitlements are governed by provincial labour laws. For example, British Columbia requires three unpaid days, while Quebec offers five paid days for immediate family. Starbucks partners should consult provincial rules and speak with human resources to confirm entitlements.
Comparison Table of Bereavement Days by Region
| Region | Number of Paid Days | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| United States | 2 days (4 days with travel) | All partners, travel extends leave to four days |
| Asia Pacific (APAC) | 5 days | Covers spouse, parents, children, siblings, in‑laws, grandparents and grandchild |
| Canada | Varies by province | Starbucks follows provincial law; partners should check local legislation |
| Other regions | Follows local law | Policies may differ; check your region’s HR guide |
Who Is Eligible for Bereavement Leave?
Eligibility depends on the relationship to the deceased and your employment status. In the U.S., Starbucks recognizes immediate family members, including spouses or domestic partners, children, parents, siblings, grandparents and grandchildren. Some store managers also allow bereavement leave for close relatives not listed in the policy, but approval is discretionary. Part‑time partners and full‑time partners are both eligible for bereavement days from the start of employment. There is no waiting period. In APAC, the policy explicitly lists spouse, child, parents, siblings, parents‑in‑law, grandparents and grandchild.
Requesting Bereavement Leave through Teamworks and the Partner Portal
Starbucks expects partners to inform their manager as soon as possible after a loss. Clear communication helps the store adjust staffing and support you. Here is a step‑by‑step process for requesting bereavement leave:
- Notify your manager – Call or message your store manager or shift supervisor as soon as you can. Let them know the date of the death, your relationship to the deceased and whether you need to travel.
- Open the Starbucks Teamworks app – Log in using your partner number. The app is accessible on mobile devices and through the partner hub. If you have trouble logging in, verify that your partner number and password are correct and ensure there is a strong internet connection. You may need to reset your password through the partner hours portal.
- Submit a time‑off request – In the app, select “Time Off” or “Schedule Request.” Choose the dates you need to be away. Select “Bereavement Leave” as the reason. Enter any notes about travel or additional needs. Teamworks will display your current vacation and sick balances so you can plan other time off as needed.
- Wait for approval – Your manager or store scheduler must approve the request. Approval usually happens quickly because the policy is straightforward. If your manager denies the request or delays approval, contact your district manager or the Partner Resources Support Center.
- Check My Partner Info (MPI) – When payroll runs, verify that your bereavement hours are coded correctly. MPI shows pay stubs, tax documents and benefits enrollment. If there is a discrepancy, speak with your store manager or call Partner Contact Center.
Troubleshooting Tips
If you cannot access Teamworks or the partner portal during a stressful time, you can call the Partner Contact Center. Provide your partner number and ask them to submit the request on your behalf. Ensure your manager is aware of the situation to prevent scheduling conflicts. In the event of technical issues, try clearing your browser cache, switching devices, or using a secure connection. The Starbucks partner portal sometimes updates; if the system is down, Starbucks HR may process leave manually.
Additional Starbucks Benefits That Support Partners
While bereavement leave helps partners manage loss, Starbucks offers many other benefits to support holistic well‑being. Knowing these resources can ease the burden during difficult times.
Sick Time and Family Care
Partners accrue one hour of sick time for every 25 hours worked. There is no maximum to how many sick hours you can earn, though you can carry over up to 520 hours each year. Sick time can be used for personal illness, caring for family, or attending medical appointments. If a bereavement extends beyond the allotted days, you may use sick time or request a leave of absence.
Vacation, Personal and Holiday Time
U.S. retail hourly partners begin accruing vacation after 90 days and can carry it over year to year. Retail management and non‑retail partners receive a vacation grant based on tenure. Starbucks observes eight holidays—New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. Paid holidays provide additional time to recover or spend with family.
Leaves of Absence
Starbucks offers various leaves of absence for medical, parental, military and personal reasons. If you need more time off after bereavement, you can request a personal leave or sabbatical. Eligibility varies by leave type, and approvals depend on your tenure and circumstances. Discuss options with your manager and HR to find the best solution.
Mental Health Support via Lyra
Grief can affect mental health. Starbucks partners and eligible family members receive 20 free counseling sessions per fiscal year through the Lyra mental health benefit. Lyra offers personalized, confidential care with a diverse provider network. Work‑life services assist with legal, identity theft and financial matters. Partners can schedule sessions online and most providers are available within two weeks. This benefit is available from the date of hire.
Financial Support: 401(k) and Other Savings Plans
The Future Roast 401(k) Savings Plan allows partners aged 18 or older with 90 days of service to contribute between 1% and 75% of pay. Starbucks matches 100% of the first 5% of eligible pay contributed each pay period. The match is immediately vested. Annual contribution limits for 2026 are $24,500, with higher limits for partners aged 50 or older. Planning for the future helps partners manage financial stress after a loss.
Education and Career Growth
Through the Starbucks College Achievement Plan, eligible U.S. partners can receive 100% tuition coverage for a first‑time bachelor’s degree through Arizona State University’s online program. Over 100 degree options are available. Veterans can extend this benefit to a family member. Continuous learning fosters resilience and provides a positive focus during challenging life events.
Coffee Markout and Discounts
Partners receive one free bag of coffee or box of tea every week, known as the weekly markout. Eligible items include one pound of whole bean coffee, VIA ready brew packets and Iced VIA packets. Starbucks also offers a 30% discount on beverages, food items and merchandise at company‑operated stores. These perks bring comfort and joy, especially when a warm drink offers solace during grief.
Music and Well‑Being Perks
Partners are eligible for a free Spotify Premium subscription. Listening to music can help with relaxation and emotional healing. Moreover, partners can access the Caring Unites Partners Fund (CUP), which provides financial grants during personal crises or natural disasters. These resources illustrate Starbucks’ commitment to holistic care.
How the Bereavement Policy Reflects Starbucks Culture
The bereavement policy is part of Starbucks’ broader philosophy of treating partners like family. The green apron represents a people‑first culture that values empathy and support. By offering paid time for grieving, Starbucks encourages partners to prioritize well‑being. The policy also aligns with the company’s mission to inspire and nurture the human spirit—one person, one cup and one neighborhood at a time.
Role Differences and Application
Bereavement leave applies equally to baristas, shift supervisors and assistant store managers at corporate locations. District managers and corporate staff follow similar guidelines. However, partners working at licensed stores (such as those in grocery chains or airports) may be subject to the policies of the licensee. They should consult their employer or union contract for details. Independent stores may not follow Starbucks corporate policies but must adhere to local employment laws.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
In the U.S., partners receive two paid days when an eligible family member dies and four days if overnight travel is required. APAC partners receive five paid days. In Canada and other regions, the number of days depends on local laws.
Eligible relatives typically include spouses or domestic partners, parents, children, siblings, grandparents and grandchildren. APAC policy also covers parents‑in‑law. For situations beyond this list, partners should speak with their manager.
Yes. You can use accrued sick time (one hour for every 25 hours worked) or vacation hours to extend your time away. You may also request a personal leave or sabbatical.
Contact your store manager or the Partner Contact Center. Provide your partner number and relevant details, and they can submit the request on your behalf. You can also email the district manager.
Yes. Bereavement days are paid at your regular hourly rate. Salaried partners receive their regular salary. For overtime calculations, bereavement hours do not count as hours worked.
Conclusion
Starbucks strives to be more than a workplace; it aims to foster a caring community. The Starbucks bereavement policy gives partners time to mourn without sacrificing pay. U.S. partners receive two days or four with travel, while APAC partners receive five days. In Canada and other regions, local law guides the allowance. Combined with sick time, vacation, mental health support, education benefits, a generous 401(k) match, and perks like a weekly coffee markout, Starbucks demonstrates its commitment to partner well‑being.
If you are a partner facing a loss, remember that help is available. Use the Teamworks app or partner portal to request leave, speak openly with your manager, and explore other benefits such as Lyra counseling or the Caring Unites Partners Fund. Caring for yourself allows you to return to work ready to deliver the exceptional Starbucks Experience. For more tips on using the partner hours app, understanding your benefits, or navigating My Partner Info, explore our other articles and share them with fellow partners. Together we thrive—one partner, one cup, one community. Check Starbucks Coffeegear 2026
