Understanding Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) in Massachusetts
PFML provides Massachusetts employees with paid leave for family or medical reasons, funded by employer and employee contributions. It differs from federal FMLA and any employer-provided benefits. Workers must notify their employer before applying, ensuring legal protection against pay changes, benefit loss, or retaliation. To learn more or begin an application, visit the Massachusetts PFML overview page.
Who is Eligible for Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML)?
Most Massachusetts employees are covered under PFML if they meet the Department of Unemployment Assistance’s annual minimum earnings requirement. Self-employed individuals can opt in through MassTaxConnect, while certain employers and organizations not automatically covered may choose to participate. If you’re unsure about your eligibility, check with your employer. For details on non-covered organizations and opt-in rules, visit the Massachusetts PFML eligibility page.
What Qualifies for Paid Leave Under PFML?
Massachusetts employees can access up to 26 weeks of combined family and medical leave per benefit year for eligible reasons, including:
- Caring for your own or a family member’s serious health condition.
- Bonding with a child after birth, adoption, or placement.
- Caring for an injured service member or managing affairs for a family member on active duty.
Leaves can be taken all at once or intermittently, with benefits based on the unique benefit year starting before your first leave day.
What Defines a “Serious Health Condition”?
A “serious health condition” is a physical or mental condition that prevents you from working for more than three consecutive days. To qualify, the condition must involve:
- An overnight stay in a medical facility.
- At least two treatments by a healthcare provider within 30 days.
- One treatment by a healthcare provider with plans for ongoing care, such as prescribed medications or therapy.
These criteria ensure that the condition is medically significant and requires proper treatment and care.
How Much Will You Be Paid?
Your weekly benefit for Paid Family and Medical Leave is determined by your average weekly wage, the state average weekly wage, and the type of leave you’re taking. In 2024, the maximum weekly benefit is $1,149.90, increasing to $1,170.64 in 2025.
Other factors, like overlapping benefits (e.g., unemployment or workers’ compensation) or working part-time while on leave, may affect your total payment. Use the PFML benefits calculator to estimate your specific payment.
When to Apply for Paid Leave
Start your application up to 60 days before your planned leave. Notify your employer at least 30 days in advance, if possible. For unexpected leave, you can apply retroactively, though benefits may be reduced if you delay more than 90 days or received other wage replacements.
What You’ll Need
- Employer notification
- Personal details (e.g., ID, bank info)
- Dates for leave start and notification
- Supporting documents (e.g., medical certification, EIN)
Apply online at paidleave.mass.gov or call for assistance with specific cases.
If you have questions about PFML, call our offices at 413-732-8356.
