Questions to Ask About Your Employer's Maternity Leave Policy

Understanding your employer’s maternity leave policy is crucial for planning your time off and ensuring you receive the benefits and protections you're entitled to. Whether you are expecting a child or planning for future maternity leave, knowing the ins and outs of the policy helps reduce uncertainty and helps you make informed decisions.

What to Ask Your Employer Regarding Maternity Leave?

Below are some important questions about your employer's maternity policy, ensuring you get the support you need during this important time. By asking the right questions, you can avoid surprises and ensure your leave is as smooth as possible.

1. What is the Duration of Maternity Leave?

The maternity leave policy in India stipulates a minimum of 26 weeks of paid leave for women employed in organisations with 10 or more employees. However, some organisations may offer longer periods of leave, depending on their internal policies. While the duration is important, you must also clarify whether the maternity leave is fully paid, partially paid, or unpaid. Paid leave ensures you can take the time off without worrying about your income, which can be crucial for many employees.

2. Are There any Eligibility Requirements?

Most organisations have specific eligibility criteria for maternity leave. These requirements may vary depending on the length of service, the type of employment (full-time vs. part-time), and other factors.

In India, the maternity leave rules require that an employee must have worked for the company for at least 80 days in the 12 months preceding the start of her maternity leave. For example, if you are a new employee or have recently switched roles, you may not have met the required tenure. In this case, you might not be eligible for full maternity leave under the policy or need to apply for leave under different provisions. 

3. Can You Take Maternity Leave in Phases?

Many women don’t need to take 26 weeks of leave immediately after childbirth. Depending on your health and circumstances, you might prefer to take your leave in phases, such as a few weeks before the expected delivery date and the remainder after childbirth. Understanding whether your employer allows you to take maternity leave in phases or whether the leave must be taken in one continuous block is essential. 

4. What Happens to Your Benefits During Maternity Leave?

It’s crucial to ask about your benefits during your maternity leave. Most maternity leave policies will maintain your employment status, meaning you will still be entitled to certain benefits, such as health insurance. However, clarifying the specifics regarding your benefits during your leave is important.

For example, many employers offer group medical insurance as part of their benefits package. You should check whether you remain covered under this insurance during your maternity leave. Does the policy cover the cost of prenatal and postnatal care? Are there any additional requirements or restrictions on the insurance during your time off? These questions ensure you and your baby receive the necessary healthcare support.

5. How Do You Apply for Maternity Leave?

The process for applying for maternity leave can vary from one employer to another. To avoid delays or complications, knowing the application process well before your expected due date is essential.

Typically, you may need to submit a formal application to your HR department, a medical certificate or a doctor’s note confirming your pregnancy and expected delivery date.  Be sure to ask for a clear breakdown of the application process, including any forms you must fill out and the documentation required. Knowing this will allow you to submit your application on time, avoiding unnecessary stress.

6. Are There Any Provisions for Adoption or Surrogacy?

As maternity leave traditionally applies to childbirth, some organisations also include provisions for adoption and surrogacy. It’s important to ask your employer if these scenarios are covered under maternity leave.

Some employers provide adoption leave, or surrogacy leave to employees who are not biological mothers but need time off to care for a newborn. It’s a good idea to confirm if your employer’s policy extends to these situations, ensuring that all employees can take time off when needed.

7. What is the Process for Returning to Work?

Returning to work after maternity leave can be stressful, especially when adjusting to the new responsibilities of being a parent. You should ask about the return-to-work process and whether any arrangements will support you as you reintegrate into the workplace.

Many organisations offer flexible working hours or the option to work from home for employees returning from maternity leave. Clarifying whether flexible working options can help ease your transition and ensure your return to work is as smooth as possible. 

8. Is Job Security Guaranteed After Maternity Leave?

Job security is a top concern for many employees taking maternity leave. The last thing you want is to return from your leave only to find that your job has been given to someone else or that you have been unfairly discriminated against due to your leave. It’s important to understand your rights when it comes to job security. In many countries, including India, maternity leave rules protect your right to return to the same job or a similar one after your leave. Ensure that your employer’s policy clearly outlines these protections and guarantees you will not face any discrimination or disadvantage due to your leave.

Conclusion

Asking the right questions about your employer’s maternity leave policy is essential for ensuring you receive the support you need during this important time. By clarifying the details of your leave, eligibility, benefits, and return-to-work procedures, you can prepare yourself for a smooth and stress-free maternity leave.

By partnering with Niva Bupa, employers can offer maternity cover that comprehensively supports expectant mothers, covering hospitalisation expenses, pre-and post-natal care, and delivery costs. The insurer offers maternity covers that ensure peace of mind with cashless facility options and a flexible waiting period for new and expecting parents. With Niva Bupa, you can focus on your growing family while they handle the healthcare needs.