How many weeks of FMLA can I take?

Concerns & risks

You were trying to plan time off for a surgery or family need, but you have no idea how long FMLA actually lets you be away.

Planning leave needs real numbers.

Causes & evidence

Eligible employees can take up to 12 workweeks of unpaid, job-protected leave in a 12-month period (up to 26 for military caregiver leave). See FMLA leave.

What to do

1. Confirm eligibility.
2. Ask how your employer measures the 12-month period.
3. Plan with HR.

Common mistakes: Common mistakes: assuming the 12 weeks resets on January 1. Employers can choose different ways to measure the 12-month period, including a rolling period looking back from the date you use leave, so ask HR which method they use. Another mistake is forgetting that intermittent leave counts too: a day here and there adds up. Military caregiver leave can allow up to 26 weeks in a single 12-month period for a covered servicemember with a serious injury or illness. Keep a simple log of the days and hours you've used, and compare it with HR's records now and then. If you're running low, talk to HR about what happens next before you run out, including whether accommodations or other leave policies may apply.

Speed Man tip: Leave can sometimes be taken intermittently.

Wrap-up: 12 weeks. 26 for military caregivers. Unpaid but protected.