Paid family & medical leave in District of Columbia

District of Columbia runs DC Paid Family Leave (Universal Paid Leave) — wage replacement while you take time off for your health or a family member's. Here's what it pays, and how it fits with FMLA.

Wage replacement

Up to 90% of average weekly wage, capped at $1,190/week (adjusts annually with inflation)

Your own health condition

12 weeks of medical leave, plus 2 weeks of prenatal leave

Caring for family

12 weeks to care for a family member (12 weeks of parental bonding leave also available)

Who pays for it

100% employer-funded — a 0.75% payroll tax that cannot be deducted from paychecks

Job protection: No — the benefit itself doesn't protect your job. Job protection comes separately from DC FMLA or federal FMLA.

No waiting period — benefits start from day one. Covers private-sector DC workers only; DC government, federal, and WMATA employees are excluded.

Official DC program site →

How it works with FMLA

Think of it as two layers. Federal FMLA is the job protection layer: up to 12 weeks per year where your employer must hold your position and keep your health insurance active — but it pays nothing. DC Paid Family Leave (Universal Paid Leave) is the money layer: it replaces part of your wages while you're out.

When you qualify for both, they typically run at the same time — protected job, partial paycheck. And both layers usually need the same thing to start: certification from a licensed health care provider that your condition (or your family member's) qualifies.

How LeaveMD helps in District of Columbia

One telehealth evaluation with a clinician licensed in District of Columbia— $159.99 one-time, or $49/month for unlimited consultations. If certification is appropriate, we complete your employer's FMLA forms and the medical certification your state claim needs — and handle HR follow-ups. If it isn't, you get a full refund.

Common questions in District of Columbia

Five minutes today. Protected leave in District of Columbia if you qualify.

The eligibility check is free, takes about two minutes, and your employer is never contacted.

Check if you qualify — free →

You pay only if you book — full refund if certification isn't appropriate for you.

Program figures as of 2026-07-07, from official DC sources. Rates and caps change — verify current amounts with the state before making decisions. This page is general information, not legal advice.