Do I have to pay for my health insurance while on FMLA leave?

No, you do not have to pay for health insurance while on FMLA leave in Washington. The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) is a federal law that ensures people in the United States receive up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave to care for themselves or a close family member. During FMLA leave, employers are required to maintain the employee’s group health coverage, including insurance, on the same terms as if the employee had not taken leave. Therefore, Washington employers must continue to provide the same health insurance benefits to employees on FMLA leave as are provided to other employees who are not taking leave. Employers, however, can require employees on FMLA leave to continue to pay their portion of the premium, just as they do for other employees. Depending on the employer, the employee may be asked to make arrangements in advance to pay the premium.

Related FAQs

Can I take FMLA leave to care for a family member if the family member is not the employee's parent, spouse, or child?
Does the FMLA cover adoption or foster care leave?
Does the FMLA cover military caregiver leave?
Can I take FMLA leave to care for a family member with an illness that requires intermittent medical treatment?
Can I take FMLA leave to care for a newborn or adopted child?
Does the FMLA cover job-protected leave for employees with a qualifying exigency related to their spouse's deployment?
Is an employee required to provide documentation to verify FMLA leave?
Does my employer have to provide me with a guarantee that I will get the same or equivalent job after my FMLA leave?
How do I file a complaint if my FMLA rights are violated?
Does the FMLA cover self-care or preventive care leave?

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