Wwyd?

**Telephus44** · 07-23-2012, 03:31 PM

My employer doesn't have an official maternity policy, and while my boss and I had the understanding that I would be paid for 12 weeks, HR is now trying to say that they'll pay me for 8 weeks and I can use vacation time until that runs out, and then take the rest unpaid. I talked with my boss and she is going to talk to HR (seriously folks, this is what happens when you don't have an official policy - I don't mind following the rules, but make sure you HAVE rules and don't just make them up as you go along...) but - what would you do?

I am planning on going back to work anyways.

My MIL is watching the baby so I don't have "my daycare spot doesn't open up for 3 weeks" problems.

We could make it through 4 weeks without my paycheck, but it would really sink our financial plans. Like the $500 a month we're paying on the 0% card to have it paid off by the time the rate expires would have to go. Or my automatic retirement contributions. We could frugal down groceries and stuff some, but not enough to replace my entire paycheck.

So - what would you do? I'm thinking that if my boss can't get the last 4 weeks paid, that I'll use 1 week of vacation pay (I have 7 days) and go back after 9 weeks.

**Spirit Deer** · 07-23-2012, 03:43 PM

Any chance of going back part time AND cutting some expenses? Maybe that doesn't make any sense.

Tough choices.

**zakity** · 07-23-2012, 04:42 PM

Can you work from home at all? If you have a c-section, will you be cleared for work by 9 weeks?

**Nishu** · 07-23-2012, 04:45 PM

So - what would you do? I'm thinking that if my boss can't get the last 4 weeks paid, that I'll use 1 week of vacation pay (I have 7 days) and go back after 9 weeks.

That. Are you okay with that? I mean you've done it once before, right? Will you be ready to go back at that point?

**brennasmom** · 07-23-2012, 05:19 PM

That's tough. Can you go back 1/2 time for 4 weeks? I would probably take off as long as I could afford to, before you know it he will be a teenager

**MissSeetonFan** · 07-24-2012, 07:11 PM

How many employees at the office? Are you below the FMLA minimum of 50 workers? If above, they HAVE to give give you the FMLA minimum. If below, I'm not sure what to do. The company may also be including time you have already taken off as part of the 12 weeks. FMLA can kick in once you are expecting so that if you stop working a few weeks before the birth it is counted as part of the time off. FmlaOnline.com - FMLA for pregnancy: Frequently Asked Questions can answer some questions.

**Telephus44** · 07-24-2012, 09:03 PM

I'm ready to go back. It's my second, so I know what it's like. And the baby is already here.

I know FMLA means I get 12 weeks, but they don't have to pay me for them. I can take the last 4 weeks unpaid, I just really don't want to. A lot of our debt payoff this year happens in August and Sept.

**Russ** · 07-24-2012, 09:07 PM

Originally Posted by Telephus44

Like the $500 a month we're paying on the 0% card to have it paid off by the time the rate expires would have to go.

If you don't pay this before the offer expires, will the interest be on the full amount?

**nodmicks** · 07-24-2012, 09:14 PM

double post

**nodmicks** · 07-24-2012, 09:15 PM

I guess it would depend on how you are feeling as much as affordability. At least it did for me. I went back after 6 weeks after my c section ( full time work)and 3.5 weeks after a natural birth( part time). However I felt really good and was getting sleep on a regular basis. I NEEDED to get out of the house and my clients were anxious. My dh had a fit both times. I think being in my early 20's helped.

How behind will you get on your goals?

**The Muse** · 07-25-2012, 05:13 AM

Based on the info you've given with regard to finances, I'd go back after 9 weeks.

**Sophiasmama** · 07-25-2012, 08:52 AM

I'd go back...if I couldn't get the half time for a few weeks. Good luck with your decision.

**khaski** · 07-25-2012, 08:53 AM

It sounds like your plan to go back after 9 weeks is indeed a good one you'd be both emotionally and financially comfortable with. This is assuming, of course, your boss can't fix this to the 12 paid weeks you discussed! Good luck, and what a blessing to have a family member to watch your little one when you go back.

**Anna43** · 07-25-2012, 10:14 PM

Six weeks used to be the standard time off for maternity leave. Often that was 2 weeks prior to delivery and 4 weeks after. I think your first priority is your health and the baby's. If 9 weeks works for that criteria, then why not go back at 9 weeks.