He said, “Congrats! Take leave anytime.” So, I requested maternity leave 12 weeks, fully paid.

The request was approved, and I felt relieved, thinking my company truly supported me during this life-changing moment.

Everything seemed perfect until a month later,

when I checked my online payslip and saw the shocking number: zero.

Panic surged through me. My savings weren’t enough to cover the bills,

let alone prepare for a new baby. I immediately called my boss,

hoping it was just a mistake. He answered casually, “Oh,

I told HR that you wanted unpaid leave. Thought you’d prefer that.”

I was speechless. “Why would you think that? I clearly applied for paid maternity leave,

and you approved it!” My voice trembled with frustration.

He chuckled nervously. “Well, I didn’t read the form carefully.

These things happen. Don’t worry, you’ll get paid when you return to work.”

But that wasn’t acceptable. With a baby on the way, I couldn’t afford to wait.

I documented all my emails and approval letters, then contacted HR directly

. When they saw my proof, they were furious.

It turned out my boss had mishandled several requests like mine.

Within a week, not only did I receive my full back pay,

but HR also implemented a stricter review process to ensure no one else would go through the same nightmare.

When I held my newborn a few months later,

I realized how close I’d come to financial disaster.

This experience taught me an unforgettable lesson: always keep records, speak up, and fight for what you deserve.