Pregnancy is an exciting time for mothers. However, it can also raise questions about job security and financial stability. Thankfully, California offers some of the most comprehensive maternity leave benefits in the U.S., offering both paid and unpaid leave options to help you care for your newborn. Here’s a breakdown of what you may expect from your employer.
Paid leave options
California provides different paid leave options for new mothers:
- Paid Family Leave (PFL): This offers up to eight weeks of leave, paying between 60% and 70% of your weekly wages. However, you need to use PFL benefits within 12 months of the birth of your baby. Moreover, PFL does not offer job protection.
- State Disability Insurance (SDI): Pregnant women may get up to four weeks of leave before the birth and six weeks after for a vaginal birth or eight weeks for a cesarean birth. Take note that SDI leave benefits also lack job protection.
Unpaid leave options
You might not receive wage replacement, but you can rest assured your job is secure while you are recovering or spending time with your newborn with the following:
- Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA): Provides you up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave. It covers employees who have worked for their employer for at least a year and at a location with 50 or more employees.
- California Family Rights Act (CFRA): Pregnant women who have worked at least 12 months with over 1,250 hours in their current job may be eligible for a CFRA leave. This offers up to 12 weeks over a 12-month period to help you care for your child.
- Pregnancy Disability Leave (PDL): This offers up to three months of unpaid leave for pregnancy-related conditions. However, PDL is only available if your employer has at least five employees.
Ensure you receive your full maternity benefits
Knowing and understanding your maternity leave options can help you focus on yourself and your baby. If you believe your employer is not providing the leave mandated by California law, do not hesitate to reach out to a legal professional. They can offer guidance to help ensure you receive the benefits you deserve.