Parental Leave and Child Care Resources and Referrals
All workers in California have rights when it comes to pregnancy and family leave. Workers may be entitled to time off work and other benefits during pregnancy, after childbirth, or when caring for family members.
Learn about leave rights
- Pregnancy Disability Leave
- Child Bonding Leave
- Child Care
- Family and Medical Leave Act and California Family Rights Act
- Medical Leave for Serious Health Conditions
- Leave After Pregnancy Loss
- Leave for Victims of Violence
- Paid Family Leave Benefits
- Pregnancy Accommodations
- Lactation Accommodation
Pregnancy Disability Leave
If a worker is pregnant or recovering from childbirth, the individual may be able to take unpaid leave. This leave is for when the individual is unable to work due to pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions. The worker’s job is protected while on leave.
Pregnancy Disability Leave Information
When an employee has problems with leave: If an employer denies a worker leave, punishes the individual for taking leave, or doesn't follow the law, the worker can file a complaint.
File a Complaint with the California Civil Rights Department
File a Retaliation Complaint with the California Labor Commissioner
Child Bonding Leave
An employee can take unpaid, job-protected leave to bond with a new child (through birth, adoption, or foster care). This leave can be taken by any parent and must be used within the first year of the child's birth or placement.
Child Bonding Leave Chart
California New Parents Rights Guide
Child Care
Child care resource and referral agencies (R&R) are state-funded, community-based programs that exist in every county in California. Connect with your local agency for assistance.
Family Care Leave
A worker can take unpaid, job-protected leave to care for a family member with a serious health condition. This includes your spouse, child, parent, or other qualifying family members.
Family Care and Medical Leave Information
Medical Leave for Serious Health Conditions
A worker can take unpaid, job-protected leave for a serious health condition that prevents the ability to work. A serious health condition is an illness, injury, impairment, or physical or mental condition involving either inpatient care in a hospital, hospice or residential health care facility, or continuing treatment by a health care provider. Employers must continue health insurance during this leave.
Medical Leave Information
Leave After Pregnancy Loss
A worker has the right to take time off after a miscarriage, stillbirth, failed adoption, failed surrogacy, or failed IVF transfer. This time is available for both physical and emotional recovery.
Leave From Work After Reproductive Loss
Leave for Victims of Violence
If a worker or their family member is a victim of domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking, that worker may be entitled to time off for safety planning, legal proceedings, or medical care.
Survivors Right to Time Off Notice - English
Survivors of Violence and Family Members of Victims Right to Leave and Accommodations
Paid Family Leave Benefits
While most leave is unpaid, workers may be eligible for Paid Family Leave benefits through California's Employment Development Department (EDD). This provides partial wage replacement for bonding with a new child or caring for a seriously ill family member.
Paid Family Leave Information
Apply for Benefits
Pregnancy Accommodations
Even when an employee is not on leave, employers may need to make reasonable changes to the job while the worker is pregnant or recovering from childbirth. Common accommodation includes more frequent breaks, seating, or modified work schedules.
Pregnancy Accommodation Rights
Lactation Accommodation
Every employer in California must provide a break and adequate space to express milk.
Lactation Accommodation Rights
September 2025