Sun Life U.S. is taking a significant step towards employee well-being with the introduction of Family Leave Insurance (FLI) in select states. This new offering provides workers with paid leave for caregiving responsibilities, addressing a crucial gap in employee benefits and reflecting the company’s commitment to broader access for all.
Addressing the Urgent Need for Paid Leave
The lack of paid leave for many Americans creates a significant burden, forcing individuals to choose between their jobs and caring for loved ones. In 2023, only 23% of private-sector workers had access to paid family leave, leaving millions of Americans vulnerable to financial hardship and emotional stress. Sun Life U.S. recognizes this critical need and is stepping in to bridge the gap.
*Initially available in Alabama, Arkansas, Tennessee, and Texas, with expansion planned, FLI provides:
- Financial security: Employees can take paid leave for caregiving reasons without worrying about lost wages, ensuring their financial stability during challenging times.
- Peace of mind: Knowing they have access to paid leave allows employees to focus on caring for their loved ones without added stress or anxiety about their job security.
- Improved mental and physical health: Reduced stress and financial worry can lead to better mental and physical health for both employees and their families.
- Stronger family bonds: Having dedicated time for caregiving fosters stronger bonds between family members and allows individuals to fulfill their responsibilities with greater support.
Beyond Benefits, Building a Stronger Workforce
Sun Life U.S. goes beyond simply offering FLI as a benefit; the company actively advocates for paid leave expansion at the national level. They collaborate with state programs like the California Paid Family Leave program and support legislative efforts like the recent proposal for an enhanced employer-paid leave tax credit. Additionally, FLI aligns with current tax benefits and is adaptable to future changes in legislation, ensuring its continued relevance and value.
Sheila Sokolski, Assistant Vice President of Product and Marketing at Sun Life U.S., highlights the value of FLI not just for employees, but also for employers seeking to attract and retain top talent. “In today’s competitive job market, offering robust benefits like paid leave is crucial for attracting and retaining valuable employees,” she says. “FLI empowers employers to stand out and demonstrate their commitment to employee well-being, which can lead to increased productivity, engagement, and loyalty.”
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Designed for Convenience and Support
FLI offers a fully insured coverage model, making it accessible for small and mid-size businesses that may not have the resources to self-fund a leave program. Leveraging Sun Life U.S.’s expertise in leave management and return-to-work models, the program simplifies administration for employers while providing comprehensive support for employees.
- Online claims submission: Employees can easily submit claims for leave electronically, streamlining the process and reducing administrative burden.
- Detailed leave tracking: Employers can track leave details to ensure compliance and support overall health and productivity management.
- Dedicated support team: Sun Life U.S. provides a dedicated support team to answer questions and guide employers and employees through the process.
Launching April 1st, 2024, with expansion on the horizon, FLI underscores Sun Life U.S.’s dedication to innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of both employers and employees.
This initiative represents a significant step forward in addressing the critical issue of paid leave access in the United States and demonstrates the company’s commitment to fostering a more equitable and supportive work environment for all.