What is the Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA)?
The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) is a federal law that provides eligible employees with job-protected, unpaid leave for specific family and medical reasons. Enacted in 1993, its purpose is to help employees balance their work and family responsibilities without the fear of losing their job. The FMLA allows for up to 12 workweeks of leave in a 12-month period for a serious health condition that makes the employee unable to perform their job. This can include substance use disorders, and it also applies to those who need to care for a family member with a serious health condition, including addiction.
The law requires employers to maintain the employee’s group health insurance benefits during the leave and to reinstate them to the same or an equivalent position upon their return. In short, the FMLA provides a vital legal framework that can make it possible to seek treatment for addiction without sacrificing your career.
Is Addiction Treatment/ Rehab Covered by FMLA?
Yes, in many cases, addiction treatment and rehab are covered by the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). FMLA is a federal law that provides job protection for eligible employees who need to take unpaid leave for serious health conditions, and substance use disorders are considered one such condition. This means you can take up to 12 weeks of leave to attend a treatment program without the fear of losing your job. It’s important to note that the leave is for treatment only and not for absence due to substance use itself. Our team can help you understand your rights and assist with the necessary documentation to ensure a smooth and confidential process.
Recovery is a journey, not a destination. You are stronger than you think.
Call NowFMLA For Addiction Treatment
For those concerned about how addiction treatment will affect their job, the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) can be a crucial resource. FMLA is a federal law that provides eligible employees with up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave for qualifying medical reasons, including substance use disorders. This means you can seek the treatment you need without the fear of losing your job, allowing you to focus completely on your recovery journey. While FMLA covers leave for treatment, it’s important to understand that it does not protect you from disciplinary action for substance use on the job or a violation of your company’s policies.
Can I Be Fired for Going to Rehab?
Under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), eligible employees are generally protected from being fired for taking time off to attend rehab. FMLA allows you to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave for qualified medical reasons, including treatment for substance use disorders. However, it’s important to note that this protection applies only if you follow your employer’s procedures for requesting leave and if you are not currently violating workplace policies (such as using substances at work). Taking the proper steps ensures that your job is secure while you focus on recovery.
Will I Lose My Job for Seeking Addiction Treatment?
Seeking treatment for addiction does not mean you will automatically lose your job. If you qualify for FMLA leave, your employer is required to hold your position or provide a comparable one when you return. Beyond FMLA, many employers value and support employees who take proactive steps to improve their health. Being open and following the proper channels—like speaking with HR or providing medical documentation—can help protect your job and ease the process. In most cases, choosing treatment shows responsibility and commitment, which employers view positively.
Start Your Healing And Begin Recovery Today.
Healing from addiction begins with a single, courageous step. Take that step today and start your personalized recovery journey with our compassionate and dedicated team.
Talk To Our TeamFMLA Eligibility for Addiction Treatment
To be eligible for FMLA coverage for addiction treatment, both the employee and the employer must meet specific criteria. First, you must have worked for your employer for at least 12 months and have logged a minimum of 1,250 hours in the 12 months prior to the leave. Additionally, your employer must be a “covered employer,” which generally means they have 50 or more employees within a 75-mile radius. Finally, the leave must be for addiction treatment provided by a healthcare provider or a provider referred by a healthcare professional, not for time off due to substance use itself. Our admissions team can help you determine if you meet these requirements.
How to Confidentially Use FMLA to Get Treatment
To be eligible for FMLA coverage for addiction treatment, both the employee and the employer must meet specific criteria. First, you must have worked for your employer for at least 12 months and have logged a minimum of 1,250 hours in the 12 months prior to the leave. Additionally, your employer must be a “covered employer,” which generally means they have 50 or more employees within a 75-mile radius. Finally, the leave must be for addiction treatment provided by a healthcare provider or a provider referred by a healthcare professional, not for time off due to substance use itself. Our admissions team can help you determine if you meet these requirements.
A Guide to Our Levels of Care
Medical
DetoxificationResidential
TreatmentPartial Hospitalization Program (PHP)
Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
Outpatient Treatment & Aftercare
How to Get FMLA For Addiction Treatment
To utilize FMLA for addiction treatment, you must first ensure you meet the eligibility requirements, then notify your employer and work with a healthcare provider to provide the necessary medical certification for a “serious health condition” that necessitates treatment.
Verify Insurance
How Our Case Managers Simplify the FMLA Process for Your Rehab Journey
Navigating the complexities of FMLA paperwork and requirements can be overwhelming, especially when you are focused on recovery. Our experienced case managers are here to simplify the process for you. They will serve as your single point of contact, helping you gather the necessary medical documentation, and working with your healthcare provider to ensure all forms are completed accurately. Our case managers will also assist you in communicating with your employer, ensuring your privacy is maintained and your rights are protected throughout the leave process. With their guidance, you can secure FMLA leave with confidence, allowing you to fully concentrate on your healing journey without the added stress of job security.
Personalized Paths to Lasting Recovery
Family Therapy
Individual and
Group Therapy
