Leave rules vary by employer and state. Knowing what you'll get, and when pay stops, is key to a baby budget.
Good to know
- The federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) gives eligible employees up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave a year
- Some states have paid family leave programs
- Your employer may offer paid parental leave or short-term disability
- Ask HR early, in writing
Plan the gap
Work out how many weeks of leave will be unpaid or partly paid, and save for that gap.
Rules vary by employer and state. Check DOL.gov and your state's labor department. Nickel Nest Egg isn't paid by any baby brand, store, registry or insurer.