Turning to Baby Registries to Subsidize Parental Leave

In the U.S., the challenge of financially preparing for a child is exacerbated by the the lack of a federally mandated paid maternity leave. The U.S. remains the only developed country without such a policy. And while some states have implemented paid leave funded by state insurance, and more companies are making such policies a priority for their most competitive talent, generous paid-leave benefits have largely not trickled down to most American workers.

Currently, only funded by state insurance (with New York and D.C. soon to join their ranks). For American workers whose states don’t provide that option, new parents can take time off under the Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA), which provides up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave. During those weeks, financial compensation can be provided by either companies, where employees get partial or full for new mothers and fathers.