How Does California FMLA Work? Eligibility and Benefits Explained

Learn how California FMLA provides up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave for eligible employees, including key requirements and employer obligations.

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California FMLA (Family and Medical Leave Act) provides up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave per year for employees to deal with personal or family illness, or to welcome a new child into the family, among other reasons. To be eligible, employees must have worked for their employer for at least 12 months, and for at least 1,250 hours during the previous year, and the employer must have at least 50 employees within 75 miles. During this leave, employers must maintain the employee's health coverage under any group health plan.

FAQs & Answers

  1. Who is eligible for California FMLA? Employees who have worked for their employer for at least 12 months, clocked at least 1,250 hours in the past year, and work for an employer with at least 50 employees within 75 miles qualify for California FMLA.
  2. How long can I take leave under California FMLA? Eligible employees can take up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave per year under California FMLA.
  3. Does California FMLA require employers to maintain health benefits during leave? Yes, employers must maintain the employee’s health coverage under any group health plan during the period of leave.
  4. What reasons are covered under California FMLA leave? California FMLA covers leave for personal or family illness, childbirth, or caring for a new child, among other serious health conditions.

Watch More

For more information on employee leave rights, explore our related content on the federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and California’s Paid Family Leave program, which offers additional benefits for caregivers.

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