Understanding FMLA: A Guide to Family and Medical Leave

What is FMLA?

The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) is a federal law that provides eligible employees with up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave during a single 12-month period. This law was enacted in 1993 to help employees balance their work and family responsibilities, as well as to provide medical care for themselves or their immediate family members.

Under FMLA, eligible employees are entitled to take leave for certain reasons, including the birth or adoption of a child, serious health conditions that prevent them from performing their job duties, and caring for a spouse, child, or parent with a serious health condition.

Eligibility and Entitlement to 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 12-month period preceding the start of the leave. Additionally, employers with fewer than 50 employees are not required to provide FMLA leave.

Employees who are eligible for FMLA leave must also give their employer written notice of their need for leave as soon as practicable after they become aware that they will be unable to perform their job duties due to a serious health condition or the birth/adoption of a child.

Using FMLA Leave: Tips and Considerations

It is essential to note that FMLA leave is unpaid, so employees should plan accordingly by saving up vacation time or other paid leave. Additionally, employers may require employees to provide certification from a healthcare provider to support their need for leave.

Before taking FMLA leave, it's crucial to review your company's policies and procedures regarding leave, as well as any applicable state laws that may differ from federal regulations.