What could you be paid?
An income-based formula replaces a larger share of lower wages, subject to an annually adjusted cap. Use the current FAMLI estimator linked from the official program before setting your household budget.
Who may qualify?
Generally at least $2,500 in covered Colorado wages during the base or alternative base period. Approved private plans, local-government participation and self-employment elections can affect where and how you apply.
What protects your job?
FAMLI restoration generally requires 180 days with the employer. Benefit eligibility can exist before restoration eligibility. Ask the employer to identify all applicable job-protection rules.
Recovery leave and bonding
Up to four additional weeks may be available for pregnancy or childbirth complications. Since January 2026, qualifying neonatal intensive-care leave may provide up to 12 additional weeks while an infant receives covered care.
Notice, dates, and deadlines
Give advance notice when foreseeable. Start the application in My FAMLI+ and confirm the current submission window, certification due date and schedule requirements in the portal. Ordinary family and medical reasons share the standard annual allowance.
How to apply
Apply in My FAMLI+ unless your employer has an approved private plan. Upload bonding evidence or the appropriate medical certification. Report schedule changes and any work performed.
Before you choose your dates
Ask for one written timeline showing the source of pay and the protection for each part of your absence. Include prior leave used, any waiting period, employer top-up rules, health-premium payments, and the first scheduled workday after leave. The maximum listed above is not a personal approval.
Your application folder
- Employer contact, work location, hire date, wage records and schedule.
- Proof of birth or placement accepted by the program.
- Medical certification only when the requested leave reason requires it.
- Proposed dates, any split schedule, and the employer’s notice confirmation.
- Submitted forms, receipt numbers, decisions, and appeal deadlines.
After approval, check whether continuing certifications or weekly claims are required. Report work, other payments and date changes accurately. A state payment approval does not automatically update the employer’s absence record.
Official sources & further reading
Source review: October 7, 2026. Rules can change; the administrator makes the final determination.