Parental Leave

Parental Leave policies explain how eligible employees can take job-protected time off (in some cases paid time off) for the birth of a child or the placement of a child through adoption or foster care, including notice, coordination with FMLA or state leave programs, and return-to-work protections.

How to Write a Parental Leave Policy

• Start with "why" and introduce the concept.
• Define the covered reasons for parental leave (birth, adoption, foster placement, and related medical appointments where applicable).
• State whether leave is paid or unpaid and how pay is calculated when paid.
• Explain how accrued paid time off can be used with parental leave.
• Describe eligibility requirements and any limits on the total leave available.
• Explain how parental leave coordinates with other leave laws.
• Set expectations for requesting leave and providing notice.
• Address documentation that may be required to confirm the leave qualifies.
• Explain benefits continuation during leave and any employee premium payment expectations.
• Describe return-to-work and reinstatement expectations, including any limited exceptions.
• Include a non-retaliation commitment for requesting or taking parental leave.
• Tell employees where to go with questions or to start a request.

For advice on writing a Parental Leave policy in a specific jurisdiction, see below.