Can You Use FMLA for Rehab? Yes—Here’s How to Protect Your Job While Getting Help 

If you’ve reached the point where you’re considering treatment for substance use, you might also be asking yourself a scary question: What will happen to my job if I go to rehab? 

The good news? You may have more protection than you think. Thanks to the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), you may be legally entitled to take time off work for rehab or addiction treatment—without losing your job. 

At Bluff in Augusta, GA, we know how overwhelming it can be to juggle work, family and health. That’s why we’re breaking down what FMLA is, how it works and how you can use it to take the first step toward recovery. 

What Is FMLA? 

The Family and Medical Leave Act is a federal law that allows eligible employees to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave in a 12-month period for serious health conditions—including substance use disorders. 

That means if you’re struggling with addiction and need time to go to rehab, detox or a treatment program like ours at Bluff, you may be able to take time off without risking your employment. 

Who’s Eligible for FMLA? 

To use FMLA, you need to meet a few basic requirements: 

• Your employer has at least 50 employees within a 75-mile radius 

• You’ve worked for your employer for at least 12 months 

• You’ve worked at least 1,250 hours in the past 12 months 

If you check those boxes, you can likely apply for FMLA and use that time for addiction treatment. 

Is Rehab Really Covered? 

Yes! Substance use disorder is recognized as a serious health condition under FMLA. That means you can take leave to: 

• Go through detox 

• Attend inpatient or outpatient treatment 

• Participate in therapy or counseling as part of your recovery 

It’s important to note: your treatment must be recommended by a healthcare provider (which includes licensed rehab facilities like Bluff), and the program must qualify as medical care. 

Will My Employer Know Why I’m Taking Leave? 

You are not required to give your employer all the details. When applying for FMLA, you can simply state that you’re taking leave for a serious health condition. Your privacy is protected under HIPAA and FMLA regulations—meaning your employer can’t legally discriminate or fire you for seeking treatment. 

How Bluff Augusta Can Help 

At Bluff, we understand that the decision to enter rehab is deeply personal—and sometimes logistically difficult. We’re here to help make the process as smooth as possible. 

Our team can: 

• Walk you through using FMLA for rehab 

• Provide any necessary documentation for your employer 

• Coordinate with your healthcare provider to support your leave 

• Create a personalized treatment plan to meet your needs while protecting your job 

Whether you’re considering inpatient care or a dual diagnosis program, we’ll help you find a treatment approach that fits your life—and respects your responsibilities. 

You Don’t Have to Choose Between Your Job and Your Health 

Too many people delay getting help because they’re afraid of what will happen at work. But addiction is a medical condition, not a moral failure—and you have rights. 

If you’re ready to take back control of your life, FMLA might be your ticket to a healthier future, without putting your career on the line. 

Contact Bluff today to learn more about how to use FMLA for rehab, and how we can support you from detox through recovery. Your job can wait—your health shouldn’t have to.