Quick answer: the last day of leave is the start date + weeks x 7 - 1, and you return on the next workday. 12 weeks starting Friday, October 30, 2026 ends Thursday, January 21, 2027, back Friday, January 22.
How much maternity leave do you get?
Federally, the Family and Medical Leave Act gives eligible employees up to 12 workweeks of unpaid, job-protected leave in a 12-month period for the birth and care of a newborn. Pay during leave comes from state programs, employer policy, or saved PTO.
If your employer uses a rolling 12-month period, check what is left with the FMLA calculator; for paid time you have saved, the PTO calculator.
Sources: DOL: Family and Medical Leave Act. Rules checked . Found a problem? Tell us.
Questions
Who qualifies for FMLA leave?
Employees with at least 12 months with the employer and 1,250 hours worked in the last 12 months, at a site with 50 or more employees within 75 miles.
Is maternity leave paid?
FMLA leave is unpaid. Pay comes from employer policy, saved PTO, disability insurance or a state paid family leave program where one exists.