 TITLE: How to Financially Prepare for Children CONTENT: Review Your Maternity and Paternity Leave\n-----------------------------------------\nDepending on your employer, length of employment and other factors, you and your partner may be eligible for leave from work according to federal and state provisions. However, there's a good chance it won't be _paid_ time off.\nBe sure to review your maternity or paternity leave coverage with your employer and state well in advance. Then, strategize how much time you intend to take off work, depending on your family and budget.\nKeep in mind that the time you need to spend away from work for a new child can be unpredictable. Pregnancy complications like extended bedrest can disrupt even the best-laid plans. It may be a good idea to save up paid time off, like sick days and vacation time, to cover any unintended interruptions to your or your partner's paycheck. You can also consider short-term disability insurance, either independently or from your employer, to help cover potential rough patches. END