Another maternity leave question

Hi All,

Not sure if this has already been answered somewhere but, my company gives 6 weeks or 8 weeks paid maternity leave depending on the type on delivery. I thought this was on top of the 12 weeks unpaid under FMLA but was informed that this would run concurrent with FMLA. This means I'm only eligible for 12 weeks off, paid and FMLA combined. Is this the case for any of you? This really threw me for a loop as I always thought it was additional and not concurrent. Any information would be most helpful.

Re: Another maternity leave question

Yes, that is the norm. the paid leave counts towards your total 12 weeks FMLA.

Another maternity leave question

Oh that blows...

Re: Another maternity leave question

Nope 12 weeks TOTAL. And your right it does BLOW

Re: Another maternity leave question

Re: Another maternity leave question

Yup-my company is the same I get 6 or 8 weeks depending on the type of delivery (as STD) my company gives me 2 weeks maternity leave paid; and it all runs concurrently with the 12 weeks FMLA. So for a vaginal birth I'll have 8 weeks home paid; 4 unpaid. If I end up with a c-section; I'll have 10 weeks paid; 2 unpaid. Totally blows that we don't get more time with our babies

Re: Another maternity leave question

yes, same.

Re: Another maternity leave question

Another maternity leave question

my company is the same ... except those 6 or 8 weeks of paid time is only if you are signed up for short term disability. i had no idea i needed it so i got screwed and will not get paid at all (except $170 per week from the govt) ... please make sure to sign up for STD

Re: Another maternity leave question

Yup, 12 weeks total and it sucks! I was even more upset when I was put on modified bed rest at 34 weeks due to preterm labor. I was out of work for 4 weeks and was sooooo mad when I found out that came out of my 12 weeks. I actually went back at 38 weeks (my OB didn't mind if I went into labor at that point) just so I wouldn't lose any more days. I was hoping my FMLA would "reset" since I went back and I could still take my full 12 weeks but no such luck. I had to leave DD at 8 weeks when all along I was banking on 12 weeks home with her. I just kept reminding myself to be thankful she wasn't born preterm.

eta- Be happy you get ANY paid time! We get none, I have to use my sick and vacation time just to get a paycheck while I'm out. Now that really stinks!

Message edited 8/24/2012 12:18:45 PM.

Re: Another maternity leave question

Re: Another maternity leave question

that is how it works. FMLA just ensure that you have job security. Has nothing to do with pay or not. Your 6 or 8 week alotment has to do with how you deliver, and fmla makes sure it is all protected. Some places may allow you to stay out longer- asif you have extra accrued time, but most do return at the 12 week mark.

Re: Another maternity leave question

yup, concurrent.

Re: Another maternity leave question

same at my company 100% pay for the 6 or 8 weeks, then we can choose to take maternity leave at 40% pay (1 week for every year completed work), then we can take vacation. They only have to hold our position for 12 weeks, but there have been people that have taken 16 weeks with no issues where i work.

Re: Another maternity leave question

yup......

FMLA is not a paid benefit. Its only the length of time for Job security.......

AND its only to guarantee that you return to "A" job....... They are able to put you with a different boss, or even a different job upon your return.

Re: Another maternity leave question

Yea, 12 weeks is the max you can be out consecutively otherwise you can lose your position...

Another maternity leave question

Every company is different. I am using my sick time during FMLA and when that runs out the rest is unpaid. I am allowed to use my vacation time after FMLA though so I'll be out for 14 weeks total.