Accepted Answer

Thank you for contacting our JA team for guidance.

 

Alaska does not have a temporary disability program for employees as some states do. Here are the programs that are available: http://www.disability.gov/benefits/state_&_local_resources/alaska

 

Yes, your employer can require that your first leave counts toward your FMLA leave and can run concurrently with short term disability benefits through your employer. You receive up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave per calendar year, assuming you otherwise qualify.

 

Since it appears you will be exceeding the 12 weeks, your job would not be legally protected and you may want to apply for social security benefits during your time off.

 

Please let me know if you need additional information.

Best regards to you,

TG

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Expert:	Tina G, BBA, JD
Pos. Feedback:	99.1 %
Accepts:
Answered:	9/4/2009

Lawyer.

licensed attorney for 12 years including employment, business, contract, domestic, and general civil