Hi,

I've visited these forums before for labor talks and such. I'm in a whole new ballgame. October 19th, my girlfriend had our baby boy via Cesarean.

She was recently approved 6 weeks maternity leave with 4 weeks paid. On a sliding scale no less of percentages - 90% 1st week, 75% 2nd week, and 60%for the 3rd and 4th. They're also paying out her vacaction and sick time sometime this week. Needless to say, she was somewhat heartbroken because she was under the impression she would be getting 6-8 weeks paid.

Now we've been told by some individuals that we could possibly have her apply for disability. Which would help us out greatly, as I'd really love for her to have more time with our child. The finance would also greatly help, as I really don't want her to stress or be concerned with anything financial. Just our baby boy.

I guess, my question is - What are the choices we have at this point ? I've been scouting the internet for answers, but everything feels so vague. I can usually do very good investigations, but things like these seem to end up at dead ends from time to time with myself. I just need to be pointed in the right direction of the organization or paperwork. Any help is appreciated, and thank you ahead of time.

Does she HAVE a disability policy, either purchased on her own, or enrolled in the plan offered by the employer (if any)? Indiana is not one of the only 5 states which have a state-mandated disability plan.

Nor is there any obligation on the part of the employer to provide paid maternity leave. If she got any paid leave at all, she got more than the law required.

If she is enrolled in a disability policy,either that she paid for herself or that her employer offers, she may or may not be able to apply for benefits (depending on the terms - some will not pay benefits if the employer provides paid leave; few will pay for longer the initial 6 or 8 weeks for maternity under any circumstances).

If she has neither purchased a policy on her own, nor enrolled for any policy her employer may offer, then disability is not an option.