Maternity Leave (USA)
I found out today at work that I am only permitted 6 weeks of unpaid maternity leave starting the day I give birth. I was surprised at the time frame, I thought I’d get at least 8 weeks.
I am not really comfortable putting my six week old in daycare. I’d like my kid to have his vaccines before looking for childcare… but I honestly want to stay home if they are only giving me 6 weeks.
6 weeks after his birth date I will be on the schedule and if I am not there when I am back on the schedule I will lose my job. This got me thinking, what is the average timeframe most parents get for leave?
EDIT: I do not qualify for FMLA and I do not have PTO due to not being with the company long enough (less than 12 months) and I am due next month. I am on Medicaid because my company does not provide insurance. I am in VA and state mandated protections don’t start until 2028.