Can You Lose Your Job for Going to Rehab?

If you’re struggling with drugs or alcohol and thinking about entering treatment, you might be asking a scary question: Can I lose my job if I go into rehab? The short answer is no—if you seek help the right way, the law is on your side.

In Massachusetts and across the U.S., there are strong legal protections in place that can help you take time off, get treatment, and return to work safely. Understanding those rights is a powerful first step.

Getting Help for Addiction Is Not a Fireable Offense

Addiction is a medical condition, not a personal failure. Just like diabetes or heart disease, substance use disorder affects the brain and body and can impact every area of life—including work. It often requires professional treatment, support, and time to heal.

Thankfully, both federal and Massachusetts laws recognize addiction as a serious health condition, which means employees have important rights when it comes to entering rehab, requesting time off, and returning to their jobs without fear of being punished or fired.

FMLA and Taking Unpaid Time Off Without Losing Your Job

The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) is a federal law that allows eligible employees to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave each year. You can use FMLA leave to get treatment for a substance use disorder if:

• You’re receiving treatment from a licensed health care provider
• You give your employer proper notice
• Your employer has 50+ employees within a 75-mile radius
• You’ve worked at your job for at least 12 months (and logged 1,250 hours)

While FMLA doesn’t require your employer to pay you, it does guarantee that your job (or an equivalent one) will be there when you return. Most importantly, your employer cannot fire or punish you for taking FMLA leave to check into rehab.

Massachusetts PFML – Paid Leave for Addiction Treatment

In Massachusetts, workers have an additional layer of protection: Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML). This state program allows eligible employees to take up to 20 weeks of paid medical leave to recover from a serious health condition, including addiction.

PFML often applies even if your employer is small or doesn’t offer traditional benefits. While you’re getting treatment, you can receive partial wage replacement and, just like with FMLA, you’re protected from retaliation or termination.

So if you’re wondering whether you can enter rehab and still pay your bills, PFML may help relieve that burden.

ADA and The Rehabilitation Act

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 both offer legal protections for employees dealing with substance use disorders.

Under these laws, addiction is often considered a disability, especially if you’re in recovery or seeking treatment. That means:

• Your employer cannot fire you just for having a substance use disorder
• You may be entitled to a reasonable accommodation, such as time off for treatment or a modified schedule during recovery

However, if you’re currently using illegal drugs or show up impaired at work, these protections may not apply. Alcoholism is always covered under the ADA, but employers can still enforce drug-free and alcohol-free workplace policies.

Your Treatment Is Confidential with HIPAA

Worried about your boss finding out you’re going to rehab? Don’t be.

The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) ensures that your medical records and treatment details are private. Your employer does not have the right to access your health information without your written consent.

If you choose to share that you’re seeking help, you have the right to keep the details of your treatment confidential.

When Can an Employer Legally Fire Someone in Rehab?

While the law protects you, there are a few exceptions. An employer may take disciplinary action if:

• You’re using illegal drugs at work
• You’re violating company policy while impaired
• Your job performance is suffering, and you haven’t disclosed a need for help or accommodation

But if you take proactive steps—like letting your employer know you need medical leave or accommodation—your job is much more likely to be protected under FMLA, PFML, and the ADA.

How to Talk to Your Employer About Going to Rehab

If you’re planning to check into rehab, here are some steps to protect your job:

1. Speak with HR (or your manager, if necessary) – Let them know you’re requesting leave for a medical reason.
2. Request FMLA or PFML – Ask what forms you need to fill out. You don’t have to share full details.
3. Keep documentation from your provider – This proves you’re getting treatment for a serious health condition.
4. Consider using your EAP – Many workplaces offer an Employee Assistance Program to help you find treatment and keep your job.

If you’re unsure how to approach this, speak with a treatment center like ours—we can help walk you through the process.

You’re Protected. You’re Not Alone. And You Can Recover.

Deciding to enter rehab is an act of strength. The good news is, you don’t have to choose between keeping your job and getting better. Laws like the FMLA, ADA, PFML, and HIPAA exist to protect you.

At Massachusetts Center for Addiction in Quincy, we help individuals every day who are balancing treatment and work. You have options. You have rights. And you can recover, with your career intact.

If you or a loved one is considering treatment, call us today. We’re here to help you take that first step—confidentially and with compassion.

Helpful Resources for Massachusetts Residents

• U.S. Department of Labor – FMLA Overview
  Explains employee rights under the Family and Medical Leave Act, including leave for substance use treatment.
• Massachusetts Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML)
  Details eligibility, benefits, and how to apply for paid leave in Massachusetts.
• Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD)
  Outlines employee protections under state disability law and how to file a complaint.
• ADA National Network – Substance Use Disorders and the ADA
  Clarifies how the ADA applies to employees with drug or alcohol addiction.
• SAMHSA National Helpline
  A free, confidential helpline for finding addiction treatment and support: 1-800-662-HELP (4357).