Do I Have to Use My Bonding Time All at Once?

Do you have questions about an upcoming leave, FSA/HSA reimbursements, dental insurance, MedRe benefits, or claims? Just Ask Rob!

Our new #AskRob feature connects you directly with expert answers to help you navigate your benefits with confidence. Whether it’s FMLA, PFL, or your dental plan, Rob is here to clear up the confusion.

Question: Hi Rob! My partner and I just welcomed a new baby. I’m eligible for New York Paid Family Leave (PFL / Bonding), but I don’t want to take all 12 weeks at once. I’d rather take a few weeks now and then maybe one or two days a week later on to help with childcare transition. Is that allowed, or is it ‘use it or lose it’ all at once? 

Rob’s Answer: Great news! New York is actually very flexible with this. You don’t have to take your bonding leave in one big chunk. This is called Intermittent Leave. 🗓️ 

Under NY PFL, you can take your bonding time in daily increments. This is perfect for parents who want to slowly transition back to work or stagger their leave with their partner to extend the time someone is home with the baby. 

Rob’s Rules of the Road for Intermittent Leave: 

• The 12-Month Window: You must use your bonding leave within the first 12 months of the child’s birth, adoption, or foster placement. After the first birthday, any remaining days expire! 🎂 

• Notice to Employer: Even though you can take it day-by-day, you still need to give your employer the appropriate notice when your leave is foreseeable. 

• Keep a Log: When you take leave intermittently, you’ll need to track the specific days you are out to ensure your benefit checks are processed correctly. 

Rob’s Practical Steps for New York State PFL Bonding: 

1. Talk to HR: Let them know your intended schedule. Whether it’s “every Friday” or “two weeks on, two weeks off,” communication is key. 🗣️ 

1. Request Submission: Your HR department will file your PFL paperwork with us, marking it as “Intermittent.” 

1. Coordinate with your Partner: If both of you have NY PFL, you can’t usually take leave at the exact same time for the same child if you work for the same employer, but if you work for different companies—you can get creative with your scheduling! 🤝 

1. Stay Within the Limit: Remember, the maximum is 12 weeks total per 52-week period. 

Have a question for our next post? Drop it in the comments below! 👇 

#AskRob #ComTon, Inc #NYPFL #Bonding #NewParents