The maternity leave pay calculator estimates your weekly PFML (Paid Family and Medical Leave) benefit and total leave pay for states with active programs. If your state doesn't have PFML, it shows your FMLA rights and other options.
Your Leave Details
How to Calculate Your Maternity Leave Pay
State PFML programs replace a percentage of your wages while you're on leave — but the exact formula varies by state. Most use a tiered approach: a higher replacement rate for lower-wage earners, tapering off for higher earners.
Step 1: Know Your State's Program
Each state has its own PFML program with different benefit formulas, maximum weekly caps, and maximum leave durations. California's SDI pays up to 70–90% of wages. New York's PFL pays up to 67% of the state average weekly wage. Washington pays 60–90% up to the state cap.
Step 2: Calculate Your Weekly Benefit
Use your average weekly wage (gross earnings ÷ 52) and apply the state formula. For example, in New York at $1,500/week gross: the 2024 max PFL benefit is $1,151.16/week (67% of the $1,718.15 state average weekly wage cap). If you earn less than the state average, you'd receive 67% of your actual weekly wage.
Step 3: Stack Your Benefits
In states that split pregnancy disability and bonding leave (like CA and NJ), you may receive different benefit rates for each period. In California, SDI covers pregnancy disability at a higher rate, while PFL covers bonding. Understanding the split helps you maximize total leave pay.
FAQ
Is this maternity leave calculator free?
Yes, completely free with no signup required.
What is PFML and which states have it?
Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) is a state-administered program that provides partial wage replacement when you take leave for a new child, serious illness, or family caregiving. As of 2024, states with active PFML programs include CA, NY, WA, NJ, MA, CT, OR, CO, DE, MD, MN, and DC.
What is the difference between FMLA and PFML?
FMLA (Federal Family and Medical Leave Act) guarantees up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave for eligible employees. PFML is a state program that provides partial pay during that leave. You can use both simultaneously — FMLA protects your job while PFML pays you.
How is my PFML weekly benefit calculated?
Most states use a tiered formula: a higher replacement rate (60–90%) for wages below a threshold (often the state average weekly wage), dropping to a lower rate (40–60%) for wages above that threshold. The maximum weekly benefit is capped at a state-specific limit.
Can self-employed workers get PFML?
In some states (CA, WA, NJ, OR, CO, CT), self-employed workers can opt into the state PFML program voluntarily. They generally pay contributions and qualify for the same benefit formula. Check your state's PFML agency website for opt-in eligibility and deadlines.
What should I do if my state doesn't have PFML?
If your state doesn't have PFML, check: (1) Whether your employer offers a company-paid maternity leave policy, (2) Whether you have short-term disability insurance (which often covers 6–8 weeks for childbirth), (3) Federal FMLA (12 weeks unpaid, job-protected), and (4) Any accrued PTO or sick leave you can use.