Paid Family Leave for Military Family

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When military service sends a family member overseas, it can create big changes in your life. Paid Family Leave (PFL) offers partial wage replacement when you need time off work to support your military family member. Eligible family members serving in the military include a:

  • Spouse
  • Registered domestic partner
  • Child(ren)
  • Parent(s)

Let’s See if You Qualify

You could qualify for PFL if you:

  • Aren’t able to do your regular work and have lost wages because of your need for family leave.
  • Are working or actively looking for work when your family leave starts.
  • Worked in California and paid into State Disability Insurance (SDI) within the past 5 to 18 months. (Usually shown as “CASDI” on most paystubs.)
  • Haven’t used the full 8 weeks of PFL in the last 12 months.
  • Submit all required documents.

Good to know: Your citizenship or immigration status does not affect your eligibility for benefits.

Military Deployment and Qualifying Events

A military deployment must be overseas and means:

  • Being called to active duty to a foreign country.
  • Getting notice of upcoming deployment to a foreign country.
  • Rest and recuperation leave from a duty location in a foreign country.

A qualifying event is something important you need to take care of because of the deployment. These events do not have to happen in California. Examples can include:

  • Finding childcare or elder care while your family member is away.
  • Helping with legal or financial matters.
  • Going to counseling.
  • Supporting your family member during their rest and recuperation leave.
  • Going to military ceremonies or events.
  • Representing them at official events.
  • Dealing with issues after a military member has passed away.

Have Your Documents Ready

When you apply, you’ll need to include documents that show why you’re taking time off. These documents help prove that the time off is related to your family member’s military service.

Military Documents You Can Use:

  • A copy of active duty orders.
  • A letter saying your family member will be called to active duty.
  • Rest and recuperation leave papers signed by the military official who approved the time off.

Documents for Qualifying Events:

  • A copy of a meeting notice for a military event or information session.
  • A bill or receipt for legal or financial services you helped arrange.
  • A letter about a meeting with a third party, like a lawyer or financial advisor. The letter should explain:
    • Why the meeting happened.
    • Where it took place.
    • Who you met with and how to contact them.

You should talk to your employer about what qualifies.