How Much Will I Get Paid for Paid Parental Leave in California?
If you're expecting a child or planning for the placement of a child through adoption or foster care, one of the first questions on your mind is likely: How much will I get paid for parental leave in California? You're not alone… and the good news is, there’s a way to find out in advance. Many people assume they have to wait and see what the state sends them, but California makes it possible to estimate your paid parental leave benefits ahead of time. Here's how to determine your weekly pay amount, what qualifies you for leave, and tips to make sure you get every dollar you’re entitled to.
First, Who Is Eligible for Paid Parental Leave in California?
California offers two key programs that apply when you welcome a new family member: State Disability Insurance (SDI) and Paid Family Leave (PFL). Together, these programs can offer up to 12 weeks of paid leave when taken back-to-back—depending on your situation and eligibility.
To qualify for paid parental leave in California, you must meet the following eligibility requirements:
You must be welcoming a child into your home by birth or placement involved in adoption or foster care.
You must be employed or actively looking for work when you file your claim.
You must have lost wages due to bonding with your child (PFL) or recovering from pregnancy/birth (SDI).
You must have paid into California State Disability Insurance (CASDI) via paycheck deductions 5 to 18 months before your claim.
If these apply to you, you’re eligible for paid leave under state law, even if you’re also eligible for unpaid FMLA leave through your employer.
The Fastest Way to Estimate Your Parental Leave Pay
California’s Employment Development Department (EDD) provides a free online benefits calculator that makes it easy to estimate your weekly payments.
Here’s how to use it:
Head to the EDD Benefits Calculator
Input your total income for the last 18 months (you'll need your paystubs or know your annual salary)
Click "Next Step"
The calculator will identify your highest earning quarter and estimate your weekly benefit amount
This estimate is based on your pre-leave income and will give you a good idea of how much paid time off you’ll be compensated for. Most eligible parents in California will receive between 60–70% of their regular wages, depending on income level.
Understanding How EDD Calculates Paid Parental Leave Benefits
If you're curious how the math works behind the scenes, here’s a quick breakdown.
The EDD looks at your income earned 5 to 18 months before the start of your claim and identifies your highest-paid quarter (3 consecutive months). Your benefit is then calculated as a percentage of that quarter’s average weekly wage.
If you earned between $929 and $7,154.32 in your highest quarter, you’ll get approximately 70% of your wages
If you earned more than $7,154.33, your benefit drops to 60%, with a maximum weekly benefit of $1,620 (as of 2023)
These payments apply to both State Disability Insurance (SDI), for the period following the birth where you're recovering physically—and Paid Family Leave (PFL), for bonding time with your child.
Real-Life Examples
Example 1: Amelia
Annual salary: $85,000
Highest-earning quarter: $21,249
Weekly benefit: Approximately $981/week
Example 2: Sophie
Annual salary: $120,000 (with commission-based fluctuations)
Highest-earning quarter: $34,530
Weekly benefit: Approximately $1,594/week
These are estimates, the EDD will confirm your wages with your employer. Be as accurate as possible to avoid surprises.
Important Notes About SDI and PFL Payments (2024–2025)
Maximum weekly benefit
In 2024, the cap remains $1,620/week (about 60–70% of wages). Learn more here.
Starting January 1, 2025, the cap increases to $1,681/week, and wage replacement rises to 70–90% of earnings.
Retroactive payments
You’ll only start receiving benefits after your leave begins. Keep this in mind for budgeting.
EDD processing timeline:
The EDD must issue benefit payments within 14 days of claim certification or the first day of disability—whichever is later—per SB 1090. Learn more here.
– However, in practice, you may still experience delays, plan accordingly!
Payment methods:
You can select either an EDD debit card or direct deposit to receive funds.
Paid Parental Leave vs. FMLA
It’s essential to note that California’s paid parental leave is distinct from the federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). While FMLA allows up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave in a 12-month period, it doesn’t offer pay.
In contrast, California’s programs replace wages, though job protection isn’t guaranteed unless FMLA or CFRA (California Family Rights Act) also apply.
Many parents use a combination of:
SDI for pregnancy-related medical leave (up to 4 weeks before birth and 6–8 weeks after)
PFL for baby bonding (8 weeks)
Unpaid FMLA leave to protect their job during the time off
If birth or placement is involved, and you're meeting your work obligation, you can generally stack benefits to maximize both job security and income.
Final Tips for New and Expecting Parents
Plan ahead by calculating your paid parental leave benefits early
Talk to your HR department about your leave to cover the placement of a child
Track your income and understand which 12-month period the EDD will review
Choose direct deposit to avoid delays
Don’t forget: delays in processing are common, so budget accordingly
Need Help Navigating Your Leave?
At Hello, Bundle, we specialize in helping parents across the United States maximize their access to paid leave. Whether you’re navigating adoption or foster placement, the medical leave act FMLA requirements, or just trying to understand how to get paid time off during your parental leave, we’ve got you.
We offer:
