HR News

Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA): Supporting You When Family Matters Most

At George Mason we understand that family comes first, and the vital role that employees play in caring for a loved one. We want you to know we are here to support you during those times. One of those ways is through the Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA), a federal law designed to help employees balance work and personal responsibilities during some of life’s most important moments. Whether welcoming a new child, caring for a family member with a serious health condition, or managing your own health. FMLA provides eligible employees with unpaid, job-protected leave for up to 12 weeks in a 12-month period for qualifying medical reasons for yourself or to care for a family member.

What is FMLA?

When you are needed to care for your spouse, your child, or your parent who has a serious health condition, FMLA will provide unpaid, job-protected leave. This includes helping a family member with basic medical care, hygiene, nutrition, safety, transportation, or simply providing the psychological comfort they need to recover.

During FMLA

· Your job (or equivalent position) is protected.

· Your group health insurance benefits continue under the same terms as if you were actively working

· You are not required to use paid leave, but you may choose to use accrued paid leave concurrently with FMLA.

Are You Eligible?

You are generally eligible to apply for FMLA if you have:

  • 12 months of state service
  • Worked at least 1,250 hours in the 12 months prior to when you to start your leave
  • Have remaining FMLA leave within your 12-week annual entitlement

What are some reasons to take FMLA?

FMLA leave may be used for:

· The birth of a child and care for the newborn

· Placement of a child for adoption or foster care

· Care for a spouse, child, or parent with a serious health condition

· Your own serious health condition that prevents them from performing essential job functions

· Certain qualifying exigencies related to a family member’s military service

· Care for a covered service member with a serious injury or illness (military caregiver leave)

What is a “serious health condition”?

A serious health condition typically involves an overnight stay in a hospital or medical facility, or ongoing treatment by a healthcare provider. Common examples may include recovery from surgery, complications from pregnancy, chronic conditions requiring period treatment, or conditions requiring extended time off work.

Who do I contact if I need FMLA?

Getting Started: If you need to apply for FMLA for yourself or to care for a family member, notify your supervisor and the HR Benefits Team at benefits@gmu.edu.

1. Connect: An assigned Benefits Administrator will personally guide you through the process, and explain how the process works.

2. Certify: Medical certification is required form the health provider. This can cover a continuous leave or an "intermittent" reduced schedule.

  1. Submit: Documentation can be uploaded via the Secure File Share at the top of the HR Forms page.
  2. Inform: Your Benefits Administrator will keep your supervisor informed of your leave dates and when you will be returning to work.

How does FMLA work with paid leave and benefits?

You may use available accrued leave (such as sick or annual leave) concurrently, according to university policy. It is helpful to think of FMLA as an "umbrella"—it protects your job while you are away, but the leave itself is unpaid. To ensure pay during your absences, you can use your accrued leave hours to cover your time off. Your health benefits continue during FMLA leave under the same conditions as active employment. You remain responsible for your portion of benefit premiums.

We are here to help

Navigating leave options can feel complex, especially during challenging or emotional times. The HR Benefits Team is committed to supporting your through the FMLA process with clarity, compassion, and confidentiality. For more details about eligibility, documentation, or how FMLA coordinates with other leave programs, please visit the George Mason HR FMLA page. We are here to help you navigate these moments so you can focus on what matters most: your family.

Questions can be directed to benefits@gmu.edu.