Do Adoptive Parents Get Parental Leave in Massachusetts?

Parental leave is a critical period for new parents to bond with their new baby. The United States is one of the only countries in the world that does not require employers to offer paid maternity leave. Paid or unpaid – you may be wondering about the policy in your home state. If you are planning to adopt in Massachusetts, you may be asking yourself: “Do adoptive parents get maternity leave in MA?”

The simple answer is yes. Massachusetts offers parental leave for adoptive parents. If you are looking to grow your family through adoption, you can enjoy time off with your baby in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

As you pursue adoption, you may have other questions surrounding paternity leave in MA. Read on, as we explore Parental Leave in Massachusetts, including who is eligible, how long this leave is, and how it all works for adoptive parents.

What is Parental Leave in MA?

According to the Massachusetts government website, Parental Leave requires employers to provide eight weeks of unpaid leave to employees for the birth or adoption of their child. This is in place for those welcoming a child via birth or adoption.

Parental leave is a critical moment of bonding for parents and children. Research shows there are positive outcomes for both health and development in children, and it helps lower levels of stress and depression in new parents. Psychologists tout the many benefits of parental leave for both children and parents, as this time helps forge a solid foundation and relationship within the family.

Who is Eligible for Maternity Leave in Massachusetts?

Formerly known as MA Maternity Leave in the Workplace, parents of any gender are eligible.

This act applies to employers with six or more employees.

Parental Leave in MA applies to anyone who has completed the initial probationary period – set by the terms of employment – but cannot exceed three months.

How Does Parental Leave Work?

Under the law, adoptive parents in Massachusetts looking to claim their leave do not need to register for this time off with the state. They must, however, provide at least two weeks’ notice of the anticipated date of departure to employers. They must also state their intention to return to work. The law allows parents to provide notice as soon as possible if a delay happens for reasons beyond their control.

If you and your partner are pursuing adoption in MA, you can rest assured that both of you can take this time off work. Even if you work at the same company, you can each take eight weeks of unpaid leave.

What is Paid Leave?

You may be eligible for paid parental leave in MA thanks to the PFML – Paid Family Medical Leave. This provides up to 12 weeks in a benefit year for any parent or legal guardian to bond with a child within the first 12 months after the child’s birth, adoption, or foster care placement.

Who is Eligible for PFML?

You may be eligible for PFML if you:

• Are a parent or legal guardian who has welcomed a new child into your family or are expecting a new child soon, either through birth, adoption, or foster care.
• Work in Massachusetts for a Massachusetts business or state agency and your employer is participating in the program
• Meet the earnings requirement

If you are self-employed, you may opt-in to this program through MassTaxConnect.

There are some restrictions on eligibility for PFML. Click here to check for a thorough guideline.

Adopting couples who work at the same office may be able to take their paid time separately or at the same time.

Other Options for Paternity Leave

There is a third option for adoptive parents considering maternity leave in MA (or paternity leave in MA.) Many companies offer paid parental leave as a benefit for employees. Your employer may have a package that offers paid time off. Contact your HR department for more details regarding your company’s parental leave.

Learn More About Adoption

Adoption is an incredible way to grow your family. Whether you already have children or are about to become a new parent, Adoptions With Love can help. Adoptive families are required to complete the home study process and take parenting courses in preparation for placement. This, in addition to parental leave, can help set you and your family up for success.

If you are ready to grow your family through adoption in Massachusetts, contact Adoptions With Love today. We can help you get started with the adoption process. We have been placing children with Massachusetts families since 1986. Our experienced adoption professionals can walk you through the steps to take when adopting a baby in MA. Call us today to get started: 800-722-7731 or reach out online.