State-based financial assistance programs in Wisconsin provide little help for parents having children. The FMLA rule replicates what its federal counterpart already does, with just a few minor modifications.
As is the case across the country, families must be proactive and take matters into their own hands. Many possibilities exist to save money and protect income for those willing to be creative.
Wisconsin does have a state-mandated short-term disability benefit covering off-the-job accidents and illnesses. Since most people suffer non-occupational medical conditions, the lack of coverage becomes a massive issue for those who fail to buy a policy on their own.
Social Security disability addresses permanent conditions that are non-occupational, but your doctor must expect the sickness to last one year or longer.
New parents are often in need of financial assistance when they must stop working during maternity and paternity leave. Most employers do not provide paid leave, and the state does not have a mandatory policy.
Two FMLA laws do offer job protections and health insurance continuation for workers at employers with more than 50 employees.