How many weeks of unpaid leave does the FMLA provide?

The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) provides eligible employees with up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave in a 12-month period for specific family and medical reasons. These reasons can include the birth and care of a newborn child, adoption, personal or family illness, and caring for an immediate family member who has a serious health condition.

The law is designed to help employees balance their work and family responsibilities while ensuring job security during their leave. After taking FMLA leave, employees are entitled to return to their same or an equivalent position without loss of benefits or seniority. This structure reflects the intention of the FMLA to support workers during critical life events without the added stress of potential job loss.