FMLA + State PFML: 3 Hidden Risks Impacting HR Teams

  • 1 minute read

When FMLA and state Paid Family & Medical Leave overlap, small mistakes snowball fast. Three pitfalls we’re seeing:

  • Forcing PTO “top-ups.” If an employee is receiving state PFML benefits while on FMLA, you cannot unilaterally require use of accrued PTO to reach 100% pay. Substitution doesn’t apply because FMLA isn’t “unpaid” in this scenario.
  • Assuming automatic concurrency. PFML and FMLA often can run together, but you still need to verify reason/eligibility and follow your designation steps.
  • Muddled recordkeeping. Mixing PFML wage replacement with employer PTO without documenting mutual agreement (where required) invites disputes.

How ConnectBridge helps: Keep PFML/FMLA eligibility and designations in one defensible case file—so HR, Legal, and payroll stay aligned.

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