Decision guideNew baby 2 min

Can I afford to take unpaid leave after the baby?

FMLA protects your job for up to 12 weeks but doesn't pay you. Whether you can afford the time off comes down to three numbers: what money still comes in while you're out, the monthly gap between that and your expenses with a baby added, and how much of that gap you can save before the due date. This is education, not financial advice.

Question 1 of about 3

Will any pay come in while you're on leave?

Count state paid family leave, employer paid leave, short-term disability, and PTO you plan to use.

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Educational only — not legal, tax, or financial advice. Typical ranges are shown; your contract, lender, and state law set the exact rules. MoneyFAQ is not a lender.