Can I get paid family leave in California?

Paid family leave in California is also sometimes allowed under short term disability. The type of benefits you can get depends on your employer, the type of insurance you have and how long you have been with your employer.

California Paid Family Leave

California became the first state to create a paid family leave program in 2002. California’s Paid Family Leave program provides support to workers who need time to bond with a new child or care for a family member that has a serious health condition.

The main questions that will be considered in determining eligibility for benefits include:

1. Whether your job will be protected while you are on leave, including any benefits; and
2. Whether you can get income while you are on leave.

California has specific laws which help individuals in need of temporary leave for family matters protect their jobs. Your employer may also provide you with information about specific family leave programs you may be eligible for.

Getting Legal Help

A California lawyer who handles disability benefit cases can give you advice about your eligibility for benefits. Each case is determined based on the specific facts involved, and you must go through the proper paper filing procedures to receive benefits. A lawyer can help you with as much or as little of this process as you like.