The news page
What's changing in California leave
Plain language updates for W-2 parents. No legal jargon.
January 2026
Benefit amounts went up
The maximum weekly check rose to up to $1,765, and workers earning under about $65,000 a year now qualify for up to 90% wage replacement. If your leave starts in 2026, these are your numbers.
May 2026
California previewed 2027
The EDD projects the maximum weekly benefit will rise to up to $1,791 in 2027, with the withholding rate moving to 1.4%. The year your claim starts sets your rate, so due dates near January matter.
Signed into law
Paid Family Leave is being aligned with CFRA
A new law, SB 590, was signed to bring the state's pay program and its job protection law closer together, with changes phasing in by mid 2028.
Planning a leave right now? The Leave Blueprint turns these rules into your plan, mapped from your due date, with a live call every week for 12 months.
Verify current figures at edd.ca.gov. Education, not legal advice.
