Military Parental Leave Program (MPLP)
12 weeks of paid parental leave for the birth, adoption, or long-term foster placement of a child — for both birth and non-birth parents, across all branches.
Who qualifies: Active duty, National Guard.
**What It Is**
The Military Parental Leave Program (MPLP) provides 12 weeks of paid parental leave following a covered qualifying event. The program was expanded and standardized effective December 27, 2022, so that both birth and non-birth parents — mothers and fathers, adoptive and foster parents — each receive the same 12 weeks.
**Key Features**
• 12 weeks (up to 84 days) of paid leave per qualifying event
• Applies to birth, adoption, or long-term foster-care placement of a minor child
• May be taken as one continuous period or in increments
• Can be combined with ordinary leave for a longer absence
• Must be used within one year of the qualifying event
**Who It Covers**
All active-duty members and eligible Reserve Component members across every branch. This is separate from any medical convalescent leave a birth parent may also receive.
**How to Use It**
Coordinate with your command and personnel office. Each service publishes its own implementing instruction with the exact request and documentation process.