Maternity Leave Benefits: Income & Job Protections

The maternity leave laws in the United States are like a box of chocolates.

You never know how much money you will get – if any at all. Plus, you never know how long your job protections will last – if at all.

Both federal and state laws combine with company policies to create a mish-mash of results. There is no average length or typical amount of paid time off.

Instead, parents have to rely on good fortune. If you work enough hours for the right employer in the right state – you are in and enjoy bonus parental leave benefits. However, parents can just as easily find themselves with zero weeks of unpaid time off.


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