Which statement best describes FMLA benefits?

• A. It allows up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave for qualifying reasons
• B. It provides paid leave for first 4 weeks
• C. It applies only to full-time employees
• D. It is funded by a separate payroll tax

Answer: (B)

The key idea is that FMLA provides time off, not wages. Eligible employees can take up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave in a 12-month period for certain family and medical reasons. The leave itself is unpaid, though you may use accrued paid time off (like vacation or sick leave) if your employer allows it. It also guarantees you can return to your job (or an equivalent position) after the leave. Eligibility depends on working for a covered employer (generally 50 or more employees within a certain distance) and meeting minimum service and hours requirements, so not everyone is eligible. In short, FMLA offers up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave for qualifying reasons, not paid leave, and it isn’t limited to only full-time workers.