Pregnancy & Maternity Leave Coverage

Can you pay your bills for 18 weeks on a $546 per week? Ask yourself this question if you are planning a pregnancy and work in New Jersey.

Why is this question so vital?  New Jersey has state mandated pregnancy, maternity leave, and paid family leave benefits which can extend for up to 18 weeks.  While it's great having these benefits, you will be facing a pay cut of 1/3 or more.  Many couples can't afford having mom away from work so long.  

See below for more details on how the NJ state plans may cover you for 18 weeks, identify your income gap, verify that you are covered, and contact the state.

Fill the NJ Maternity Leave Gap

If you are planning a pregnancy, you have an opportunty to buy additional income protection to cover your normal maternity labor and delivery! 

Supplemental Short Term Disability Insurance for pregnancy and maternity leave can fill the gap in your NJ maternity leave pay. It pays pays an additional six week benefit for your vaginal delivery, and an eight week benefit for your c-section birth.  Your maternity leave benefit may greatly exceed the premium you pay.

• Create maternity leave income
• Spend more time bonding with your baby
• Worry less about paying your bills

At no additional cost, you are also covered in case of:

• Pregnancy complications
• Delivery complications
• Premature birth
• Accidents
• Illnesses 
  

Pregnancy and maternity leave benefits are payable only when coverage begins before conception.  Don't delay!

18 Weeks of Pregnancy & Maternity Benefits

Here's how NJ allows you up to 18 weeks of maternity benefits. 

• 4 weeks before your delivery
• 8 weeks after your delivery (c-section delivery)
• 6 weeks of paid family leave
  

What's your NJ Maternity Income Gap?

NJ State Short Term Disability Insurance caps your weekly benefit at 66% of income or $546 per week - whichever is less. If your income exceeds $42,000 per year, you hit the cap.  Divide $546 by your weekly gross pay to determine how big your pay cut will be for 18 weeks.

Are you Covered?

Government workers, teachers, and independent contractors often are not covered.  The New Jersey short term disability insurance plan mandate covers private workers only. 

If you commute to NYC or Philly - you are not covered.  The mandate applies to workers, not residents.  

Already Pregnant & Need to File a Claim?

Read below for NJ State benefit programs relating to pregnancy and maternity leave.  You will find access to forms and phone numbers you need.  Good luck!