FMLA

Family and Medical Leave Act

US law granting eligible employees up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave for family/medical reasons.

When you'd see it: HR and manager conversations about protected leave for a birth, a serious illness, or caring for family.

Why it matters: FMLA guarantees eligible US employees up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave. The protection is the point: the role is held even though the leave is unpaid.

Common mistakes: Assuming FMLA means paid leave. It guarantees job protection, not pay. Paid leave is a separate, employer-specific benefit.