“Can I go to rehab without losing my job?” This question haunts many people and may even prevent them from getting the help they need. But the fear of job loss shouldn’t stand between you and recovery, and thankfully, it doesn’t have to.

The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) provides protection for employees who need time away from work to address serious health conditions, including substance use disorders. This federal law ensures eligible employees can take necessary time off for treatment while having their job security and health benefits preserved.

FMLA for Drug, Alcohol, & Addiction Treatment Rehab
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In this article, we explore everything you need to know about using FMLA for addiction treatment, including what FMLA is and how it works, who qualifies for these protections, and how United Recovery Project can support you throughout this process.

What Is FMLA?

The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) allows eligible employees to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave per year. FMLA covers treatment for serious physical and mental health conditions, including addiction and substance use disorders. This means that you can use FMLA for drug rehab treatment, which takes away concerns about losing your job while you get the care you need.

Taking this medical leave for rehab also ensures continued health insurance coverage during your leave, despite this time being unpaid. After 12 weeks (or less), you can rest assured that your job is protected and there for you post-rehab.

Can You Use FMLA for Rehab?

In short, yes. Substance use disorders are considered a qualifying condition under FMLA. It provides job protection for rehab, allowing you to take unpaid leave. However, there are a few constraints. For instance, treatment must be provided by a healthcare provider or a facility like United Recovery Project, which meets the criteria for medical treatment. Simply being absent from your job due to drug or alcohol use without entering treatment does not qualify.

Under the FMLA, qualified rehab treatment involves:

  • Medical detox: If necessary, this involves ridding the body of the abused substance under 24/7 medical supervision.
  • Inpatient rehab: This refers to attending a residential facility for rehab treatment.
  • Outpatient rehab: This can involve various levels of care where you can still live in the comfort of your own home while attending multiple, potentially daily, treatment sessions at a facility.
  • Dual diagnosis treatment: In many cases of addiction, a mental health condition also co-occurs. Getting to the root cause of your addiction, thus, often involves addressing these issues through therapy and other treatments.

Who Is Eligible for FMLA Leave?

It’s worth noting that many employers may require medical certification to grant this type of leave. So, what are the eligible criteria? Here’s a breakdown of who can use FMLA for rehab leave:

  • You must work for a covered employer (50+ employees within a 75-mile radius).
  • You must have worked for the employer for at least 12 months.
  • You must have logged at least 1,250 hours in the past 12 months.
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How to Request FMLA Leave for Rehab

If you’re wondering how to use FMLA for substance abuse treatment or how to request it, our team at United Recovery Project has got you covered.

First up, you’ll need to notify your employer of your need for medical leave. (Note: You don’t need to disclose your specific addiction.) You’ll want to do this as soon as possible for everyone’s convenience. From there, you’ll work with your doctor or a treatment provider, such as United Recovery Project, to complete your FMLA paperwork.

At United Recovery Project, we can assist you with these documents, care coordination, and everything else in between. Rest assured that under HIPAA and FMLA, your privacy is protected every step of the way.

Will My Job Be Protected While I’m in Rehab?

Yes, FMLA guarantees your job is protected during your leave. This means your employer is required to reinstate you to the same role or a comparable position when you return.

Your employer cannot legally fire you because you’re receiving FMLA-covered treatment. However, FMLA doesn’t protect against unrelated disciplinary actions that would have occurred regardless of your leave.

It’s also worth noting that you may have access to short-term disability benefits or Employee Assistance Program (EAP) resources, depending on your employer and insurance plan.

How United Recovery Project Supports Clients Using FMLA

With United Recovery Project’s addiction treatment, our team is here to help you throughout the admissions process. We can help you handle FMLA-related concerns, offering assistance with paperwork, scheduling, insurance verification, and communication with employers. Throughout the process, our team maintains the utmost confidentiality and discretion, ensuring your privacy.

As part of our admissions process, we also offer same-day admissions if necessary. Contact us now at 888-960-5121 for more information.

Use FMLA With United Recovery Project Today

At the end of the day, getting help is more important than being concerned about who knows about your addiction or might suspect it. The good news is that you don’t have to choose between your job and your health. The FMLA offers a legal way to take unpaid time off for healing and recovery, helping you get your life back on track. Explore United Recovery Project’s treatment options today.

Need help with the FMLA process? We’re here to help. Call us at 888-960-5121
or fill out our online form.