My first child is due in July, and I elected to use Paid Parental Leave on an intermittent basis. I informed my supervisor that I will be taking the first four weeks continuously to support my wife’s recovery and handle newborn care. After that initial block, any additional PPL will be taken intermittently.
I explained that, based on OPM guidance, intermittent PPL days are submitted using the OPM‑71 form as they occur, because the dates cannot be known in advance. My supervisor replied that he has never processed this before and did not see any dates listed for my intermittent leave. I clarified that intermittent leave means the dates are not predetermined they depend on the baby’s needs, medical appointments, and my spouse’s recovery and therefore cannot be listed ahead of time.
When he insisted he needed dates, I asked whether he expected me to fabricate dates on the form, since I cannot predict when those needs will arise and I would be held to whatever dates I put down. I emphasized that I can only submit OPM‑71 forms for intermittent PPL when the need actually comes up, which is exactly how the policy is designed.
Am I wrong?