If you are a working mom-to-be, arranging and planning for your maternity leave ahead of time is essential. Many benefit programs require advance notice and paperwork to be filled out before your baby arrives. It is important to research and understand your rights and benefits to take advantage of everything owed to you.
Being Prepared
Benefits can vary from person to person, so don't take a coworker's word for it. Discuss particulars with your employer or HR representative so everyone is on the same page regarding your maternity leave. Even if you only plan to take a few days, it is crucial that everyone is on the same page ahead of time to avoid complications or misunderstandings later.
If your insurance covers maternity leave, additional paperwork may be required to receive your pay while on leave. This process is usually painless, but we suggest you do it as early as your company allows. This way, you are ready to go and will have less to worry about when the big day comes, especially if it comes early or there are complications. You might need to collect paperwork from your doctor to verify your pregnancy and projected due date. If your little one comes early, the last thing you want to worry about is your maternity leave and finalizing your paperwork.
Discussing your options and plans with your partner and family can potentially open a world of possibilities you didn't know you had for leave. You'll feel better going forward with a plan in hand and your paperwork completed.