- If you’re covered under FMLA, your job (or an equivalent position) is protected during your leave. Employers must reinstate you to your same or similar position when you return.
- For those not covered by FMLA, job protection depends on your company’s internal policy or contractual terms.
There’s no legal deadline, but many women in Utah notify their employer around 12–20 weeks of pregnancy to allow time for planning, coverage, and accommodations. If your job involves physical duties, earlier notice can help your employer arrange safe and reasonable modifications.
The length of maternity leave in Utah depends on your situation:
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FMLA (federal law): Up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave if your employer has 50+ employees and you meet eligibility requirements.
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State employees: 3 weeks of paid leave, plus potential FMLA time if eligible.
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Private sector: Varies by company policy, some combine paid time off, short-term disability, and unpaid leave to reach 6–12 weeks or more.
If your Utah employer has fewer than 50 employees, the federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) usually doesn’t apply — meaning you may not have guaranteed unpaid, job-protected leave.
However:
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You may still qualify for pregnancy-related accommodations under Utah’s Antidiscrimination Act and Federal law, which require reasonable adjustments for pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions.
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Many small Utah employers still allow personal or medical leave even if not legally required, so it’s always worth asking your HR representative.
Yes! Most Utah employers allow you to use accrued paid time off (PTO), vacation days, or sick leave during your maternity leave to maintain income while you’re out.
Some employers even require that paid leave be used before taking unpaid FMLA leave. Check your employee handbook to see your company’s policy.
vacation days, or sick leave during your maternity leave to maintain income while you’re out.
Some employers even require that paid leave be used before taking unpaid FMLA leave. Check your employee handbook to see your company’s policy.
Yes. Both parents can take unpaid FMLA leave if they meet eligibility requirements.
- Utah state employees also receive three weeks of paid parental leave regardless of gender.
- Some Utah companies now offer paid paternity leave as part of modern benefits – check your employer’s HR policies for details.
No, Utah law does not require private employers to provide paid maternity leave. However, many Utah companies voluntarily offer paid time off or short-term disability coverage that replaces part of your income during maternity leave.
Consider:
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Using accrued PTO, sick days, or vacation time
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Checking if your employer offers short-term disability insurance that covers maternity recovery
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Looking into savings plans or Utah-based community support programs such as WIC or local family assistance organizations
If your employer offers short-term disability, it usually replaces 40–70% of your pay for 6–8 weeks post-delivery.
Yes. Many Utah employees combine:
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FMLA leave (unpaid but job-protected),
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Employer-provided paid leave, and
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Short-term disability coverage
Yes. Utah law and federal law both require employers to provide reasonable break time and a private, non-bathroom space for employees to express breast milk.