FMLA FAQs

Are FMLA leave and short-term disability the same thing?

No. Short-term disability (STD) is a benefit that replaces all or a portion of an employee's income when he/she is out of work due to an approved, nonwork-related illness or injury. Although different from FMLA leave, STD may run concurrently with FMLA leave, depending upon your employer's policy.

The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) is a federal law that gives employees job-protected, unpaid time off for certain family and medical events. It is not an income-replacement benefit.

Do state family and medical leave laws differ from the federal FMLA?

Many state laws provide family and medical leave rights different from or in addition to what is provided under the federal FMLA.

For example, some state laws extend family and medical leave rights to domestic partners of employees. Domestic partners are not covered under the federal FMLA.

Does FMLA leave need to be taken continuously? 

The FMLA permits employees to take leave on an intermittent basis or to work a reduced schedule under certain circumstances.

• Intermittent/reduced-schedule leave may be taken when it is medically necessary to care for a seriously ill family member, or because of the employee's own serious health condition. 
• Intermittent/reduced-schedule leave may be taken to care for a newborn or newly placed adopted or foster child only with the employer's approval. 

You should contact your Human Resources representative or your company's FMLA policy for more information on intermittent or reduced-schedule leave.

For more information on the FMLA, please click here.