Most employers offer maternity leave to new mothers, giving moms time to rest and bond with a new baby or adopted child. Paternity leave serves many of the same family needs: it lets fathers care for the child and support the birthing parent during recovery.
How Much Leave Do Dads Get?
Under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), eligible employees can take up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave for certain family and medical reasons, including after the birth or adoption of a child. Some states and employers provide more generous or paid leave than the federal minimum.
Nine out of ten fathers take some time off after a birth or adoption, but most take 10 days or less. Paid leave remains limited for many employees.
Why Dads Need Paternity Leave
The classic division of household and caregiving roles is changing, and more men want to participate in daily child care. Paternity leave gives fathers the opportunity to bond with their child and build caregiving skills, and it helps normalize shared parenting responsibilities.
Why Moms Need Paternity Leave
When fathers take leave, it can reduce barriers that often fall on mothers—such as career interruptions or restrictions on job opportunities. Shared parental leave helps level the playing field and supports both parents’ careers and family choices.
Why Businesses Need Paternity Leave
Employers who offer parental leave tend to retain employees and see higher job satisfaction and productivity. Generous, gender-neutral leave policies help attract talent and support a more balanced workplace culture.
Different industries and organizations approach benefits in varied ways; for examples of industry-specific programs, see Medical Waste/Refuse Haulers Insurance Program.
How to Get Paternal Leave
Start by reviewing your employer’s leave policy and talking with Human Resources about options for paid or unpaid leave, flexible scheduling, or short-term disability that may apply. If your workplace does not offer paid leave, you can advocate for change by sharing evidence of business benefits and asking for updates to family-leave policies.
If you are involved in a parent-run organization or co-op, you may also review coverage and benefit options such as Parent Cooperatives Insurance to understand how organizations support members and families. If you need personalized help, talk to an agent.
How to Talk About Leave at Work
Be clear about the dates you need and any flexibility you can offer. Discuss how your responsibilities will be covered while you are away and propose a plan that minimizes disruption. Putting the plan in writing helps managers approve leave more easily.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is paternity leave under federal law?
Federal FMLA provides up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave for eligible employees for certain family and medical reasons, including birth or adoption.
Is paternity leave usually paid?
Paid paternity leave is not guaranteed and varies by employer and state; some employers offer paid leave while many provide only unpaid leave under FMLA.
Can both parents take leave at the same time?
Yes—parents can often take leave concurrently or separately depending on employer policy and eligibility under FMLA or state programs.
How should I request paternity leave from my employer?
Discuss plans early with HR and your manager, present a coverage plan for your duties, and submit any required paperwork per company policy.