Taking Time Off Work

There are several laws that provide time off that may help you care for your own health/medical needs, depending on whether your needs are short-term or long-term.

Paid Sick Time

A paid sick time law typically provides short-term time off, often in increments of hours or days. Sick time can typically be used if you need time off because you have a shorter-term illness (such as a bad cold), you need to attend a medical appointment be it for illness or preventative care, or you need to care for a loved one who is ill.

Paid Family & Medical Leave

Paid family and medical leave is usually a longer-term leave of up to a few months (though can often be taken in smaller increments) if you need to bond with a new child, have a serious health condition, are caring for a loved one with a serious health condition, or have certain military family needs.

Paid Medical Leave

• Paid Disability Leave for any medical reason (non maternity)
• Paid Disability Leave for Pregnancy and Childbirth
• Paid Family Medical Leave to Care for a child or family member

Unpaid Family & Medical Leave

• Unpaid family and medical leave laws typically provide time off from work that allows you to keep your job but your time away from work may not be paid. Generally, if you are eligible for both paid family and medical leave and unpaid family and medical leave, you often have to take those at the same time but there may be exceptions.

Other Laws that May Provide Paid Benefits

• If you lose your job due to your own medical needs, you may still be able to get Unemployment Insurance. For more information about how to apply, consult your state’s website. You may also want to consult with an attorney if you have questions about your eligibility*.*
• If you leave your job voluntarily due to circumstances related to domestic violence, you may be eligible for Unemployment Insurance. For more information about how to apply, consult your state’s website. You may also want to consult with an attorney if you have questions about your eligibility*.*

Follow the Process to apply for leave with the Insurance Carrier

• How to apply for Paid Leave