Understanding FMLA Leave: A Guide for Employees

What is FMLA Leave?

The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) is a federal law that provides eligible employees with up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave in a year. This leave can be taken for certain family or medical reasons, such as the birth or adoption of a child, caring for a seriously ill family member, or recovering from a serious health condition.

Under FMLA, employers are required to provide eligible employees with job-protected leave, which means that their job is protected and they will not be terminated while on leave. Additionally, employers must continue to pay the employee's health insurance premiums during this time.

Eligibility Requirements for FMLA Leave

To be eligible for FMLA leave, employees must have worked for their employer for at least 12 months and have completed at least 1,250 hours of service in the past 12 months. Additionally, employers with fewer than 50 employees are not required to provide FMLA leave.

It's important to note that FMLA leave is only available for certain family or medical reasons, such as the birth or adoption of a child, caring for a seriously ill family member, or recovering from a serious health condition. Employees must also provide their employer with certification from a healthcare provider in order to take FMLA leave.

How to Apply for FMLA Leave

To apply for FMLA leave, employees must provide their employer with written notice as soon as possible after they become aware that they need to take leave. This notice should include the expected start date of the leave and the expected duration.

Employees are also required to provide certification from a healthcare provider within 15 days of taking leave. It's important for employees to carefully review their employer's FMLA policy and procedures before applying for leave.