Understanding US Paid Parental Leave
Unlike many other developed countries, the United States does not have a federal paid parental leave program. The federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) guarantees 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave for qualifying employees, but does not require any pay. Several states have created their own Paid Family Leave (PFL) programs to fill this gap.
States with Paid Family Leave Programs
As of 2024, the following states have state-funded PFL programs: California, New York, New Jersey, Washington, Massachusetts, Colorado, Connecticut, Oregon, and Rhode Island. More states are actively developing programs.
Typical Benefit Structure
State PFL programs typically pay 60–90% of your Average Weekly Wage (AWW) up to a state-set weekly maximum. The maximum is usually tied to a percentage of the State Average Weekly Wage (SAWW). Benefits are funded through small payroll deductions from employees.
Employer-Provided Paid Leave
Many employers, especially larger companies, offer additional paid parental leave beyond the state minimum. Some companies offer 12–26 weeks or even a full year of paid leave. Review your employee handbook or HR policy for your company's specific benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
State paid family leave benefits are generally subject to federal income tax, though they are typically exempt from payroll taxes (Social Security and Medicare). Some states may also exempt these benefits from state income tax.
Yes. Many states require or allow FMLA and PFL to run concurrently. This means your 12 weeks of FMLA and your state PFL period may overlap, effectively giving you paid leave during your FMLA period rather than in addition to it.
* This calculator provides estimates. Actual benefits depend on your state's program rules and your specific circumstances.