Employees often need to take time off work to handle family matters. There are times when sick leave or vacation time may not be sufficient. In those cases, the worker may turn to the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), which allows eligible employees to take unpaid, job-protected leave for specific family or medical reasons.
Understanding the types of situations that qualify can help workers make informed decisions when personal or family needs arise.
Serious health conditions
One of the most common reasons for FMLA leave is when an employee develops a serious health condition that prevents them from performing essential job functions. This includes illnesses, injuries or chronic conditions that require ongoing treatment or hospitalization.
FMLA also applies when a close family member—such as a spouse, child, or parent—has a serious health issue. In that case, the employee can take leave to help care for their loved one.
Pregnancy, childbirth and bonding
FMLA covers maternity and paternity leave as well. Pregnant employees can take time off for prenatal appointments, incapacity due to pregnancy or recovery after childbirth. Both parents are also entitled to leave to bond with a newborn child, adopted child or a child placed in their care through foster care.
Employers don’t always handle FMLA leave properly, so employees must understand their rights. Working with someone familiar with these matters may be beneficial to employees so they can be sure they get the leave and other protections they’re due.