Netflix to offer paid 'unlimited' parental leave

Brett Molina | USA TODAY

Show Caption Hide Caption Netflix gives employees frst year maternity and paternity leave Netflix announced Tuesday that it will give new parents unlimited time off during the first year after a child is born or adopted. Netflix said the move is also designed to help employees avoid the "headache" of applying for disability pay.

Netflix announced an update to its parental leave policy that will grant unlimited leave to both mothers and fathers with full pay within the first year after their child's birth or adoption.

In a statement released Tuesday, Netflix says employees can take as much time within the first year as they choose, earning their normal pay during leave.

"We want employees to have the flexibility and confidence to balance the needs of their growing families without worrying about work or finances," said Tawni Cranz, Netflix's Chief Talent Officer, in a statement.

Employees will be able to return part time or full time during that first year, and are able to leave again if necessary.

The company already offers an unlimited time off policy. "Experience shows people perform better at work when they’re not worrying about home," said Cranz.

Netflix's unlimited parental leave is the latest perk lavished onto employees of big-name tech companies as they push to attract the best talent. Among some of the perks enjoyed by employees include free meals, massages and laundry services.

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