Take a Break with a Leave of Absence
If you ever feel like you can’t keep working when you have kidney disease, think about taking time off. A leave of absence can be very helpful when preparing for a kidney transplant, when starting dialysis or when you just don’t feel well. It can even be taken before you start receiving treatment. Give yourself peace of mind and learn about leave of absence. Hopefully you will never need it, but you will be glad you made a plan if you do.
Explore three leave of absence options that could be right for you*
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Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) |
Short-Term Disability (STD) |
Long-Term Disability (LTD) |
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FMLA offers up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave that can be taken over a 12-month period. Upon your return your employer must reinstate you with the same pay, benefits and working conditions. |
STD provides payment to replace a portion of your lost income for six months to a year. You usually become eligible for STD after being on leave for a certain length of time, depending on your plan. |
LTD provides payment if you are unable to work for an extended period of time. Compensation usually begins after paid sick leave and STD have run out and continues until the end of your disability or according to your plan. |
*Ask your employer whether any of these options are available to you. Benefits vary by plan and employer.
