California Maternity Leave
2026 Guide to Leave Benefits
Program Overview
Tiered replacement: 60% for higher earners, 70-90% for lower earners. SDI covers pregnancy disability; PFL covers bonding.
FMLA + California Leave
Federal FMLA provides 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave. California's paid leave runs concurrently with FMLA - meaning you get paid during your FMLA-protected time, but it doesn't add extra weeks.
FMLA applies to employers with 50+ employees. If your employer is smaller, you may still qualify for California's state program, which has its own eligibility rules.
Your total leave combines state paid benefits with any employer-provided short-term disability and PTO to maximize both income and job protection.
How to Apply
Notify your employer at least 30 days before your planned leave date. File your state benefit claim through the official program.
Plan Your California Maternity Leave
See your personalized week-by-week timeline, income estimates, and a complete plan combining all your available benefits.
Calculate My Leave Plan →Explore Other States
This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Benefit amounts and eligibility requirements change periodically. Always verify current details with your state's official program and your employer's HR department.