Paid Leave Guide

There are many types of leave available to employees, ranging from paid to unpaid, each with its own eligibility requirements and benefits. Some leave types provide financial support during time away from work, while others offer job protection without compensation. This article will break down the different kinds of leave available, explain who qualifies for each type, and provide guidance on how to apply for and access these benefits. Whether you're seeking time off to care for a new child, recover from an illness, or handle a personal situation, understanding your rights and options is the first step to getting the support you need.

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

Jurisdiction: Federal
Type: Job protection
Duration: Up to 12 weeks

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Pregnancy Disability Leave (PDL)

Jurisdiction: California
Type: Job protection
Duration: Up to 4 months

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State Disability Insurance (SDI)

Jurisdiction: California
Type: Disability Insurance
Duration: Up to 12 months

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Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

Who Can Use FMLA Leave?

Eligible Employers:

Employee Eligibility:

When Can You Use FMLA Leave?

Reasons for Leave:

Duration:

Benefits of FMLA Leave

Job Protection: Your job is protected while you're on leave.

Health Insurance: Continues as if you were working.

Types of Leave:

How to Request FMLA Leave

Notice Requirements:

Communication:

Returning to Work

Job Restoration:

Special Circumstances:

Key employees (top 10% earners) may not have guaranteed reinstatement to their previous positions

Filing a Complaint

If Your Rights Are Violated:

Additional Resources

Visit: WHD FMLA Website

Pregnancy Disability Leave (PDL)

Who Can Use PDL?

Eligible Employers:

Employee Eligibility:

When Can You Use PDL?

Reasons for Leave:

Duration:

Benefits of PDL

Job Protection: Your job is protected while you're on leave.

Health Insurance: Continues as if you were working.

Types of Leave:

How to Request PDL

Notice Requirements:

Communication:

Returning to Work

Job Restoration:

Special Circumstances:

Employers must provide reasonable accommodations upon return if needed

Filing a Complaint

If Your Rights Are Violated:

Additional Resources

Visit: California PDL Guide

State Disability Insurance (SDI)

SDI provides short-term Disability Insurance and Paid Family Leave wage replacement benefits to eligible workers who need time off work.

Eligibility for State Disability Insurance (SDI)

To be eligible for SDI benefits, you must meet the following criteria:

Filing a Claim

When to File:

Required Documentation:

Medical Certification

Additional Information

For Misclassified Workers

If you believe you've been misclassified as an independent contractor, you should still apply for DI. The department will determine your eligibility.

Timeline for submitting your claim

Additional Resources

For more information, visit: California SDI Eligibility Guide