Massachusetts Paid Family and Medical Leave Law
The Massachusetts Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) law offers crucial benefits to employees who need time off for family or medical reasons. It was initially introduced to ensure workers could get paid time off during critical life events, such as bonding with a new child, managing a serious health condition, or supporting a family member’s medical needs.
If you plan to take advantage of your PFML benefits, it’s important to know the basics. This way, you’ll be equipped to handle each stage of the process and can act accordingly if, at any point, your rights under the PFML law are violated.
Key Updates to Massachusetts PFML Law
The Massachusetts Paid Family and Medical Leave law has recently undergone multiple changes, and some changes are yet to come. For example, on November 1, 2023, applicable laws shifted to allow employees to supplement their PFML benefits with accrued paid leave.
Starting January 1, 2025, the maximum weekly benefit for PFML is set to increase from $1,149.90 in 2024 to $1,170.64. These changes reflect the state’s commitment to making family and medical leave more accessible and efficient for employees. As these changes continue to come down the pipeline, PFML laws are likely to make the process of getting such leave more accessible.
Who is Eligible for Massachusetts PFML?
Under the Massachusetts PFML law, most employees working within the state are eligible. This includes full-time, part-time, and seasonal workers. If you’re a self-employed individual, you may opt into the program as well, but you will need to contribute to the PFML fund.
To qualify for benefits, you must have earned enough wages over the past year from an employer covered by PFML. The Department of Unemployment Assistance (DUA) sets the minimum earning requirements each year.
Eligibility rules can vary based on select employment terms for government employees and similar groups, so it’s important to check what requirements apply to you.
How to Apply for Massachusetts Paid Family and Medical Leave
To apply for Massachusetts PFML, you’ll need to submit a claim through the state’s online portal. You’ll need to provide all necessary documentation supporting your leave, such as medical certification or proof of a family event (like birth or adoption).
The Department of Family and Medical Leave will review your request after you submit it and notify your employer of your approval status and benefit amount within a few weeks.
Massachusetts PFML Benefits Explained
PFML offers paid leave to cover select situations that may prevent you from working. It bridges the gap, providing pay during a period when you’re unable to work due to one of the following situations:
- Medical: When you’re unable to work due to a serious health condition or injury, PFML can provide the pay you need while you recover.
- Family: These benefits allow you to spend time bonding with a new child (through birth, adoption, or foster care), caring for a family member with a serious health condition, or addressing issues related to a family member’s active military service.
- Caregiver: PFML covers military caregiver leave, allowing you to take paid time off to care for a family member injured while serving in the military.
It’s important to note that the benefits aren’t indefinite. Instead, employees may take up to 26 weeks of combined family and medical leave per benefit year.
Select caps apply to the number of weeks available for specific types of leave. For example, you can take up to 12 weeks of paid family leave to bond with a child or up to 20 weeks to care for your own serious health condition.
Employer Responsibilities Under Massachusetts PFML Law
Massachusetts’ PFML law sets specific requirements for employers. These requirements include:
- Contributing to the PFML fund: Most employers share the cost of PFML premiums with employees through payroll deductions.
- Notifying employees: Employers must inform employees about their rights under the PFML law, including providing written notices of benefits and contributions.
- Job protection: Employers are required to guarantee that employees who take PFML leave can return to their same or equivalent position after leave ends. Retaliation against employees for using PFML benefits is illegal.
Common FAQs About Paid Family and Medical Leave in MA
How Much Does PFML Pay in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts PFML pays a percentage of your average weekly wage, capped at a specific amount based on your earnings. As of 2024, the maximum weekly benefit is capped at $1,240, but that is set to increase in 2025. If you earn below a certain threshold, you will receive a higher percentage of your wages compared to higher earners, making benefits more equitable across income levels.
Does the Employer Pay for PFML in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts employers contribute to the PFML fund through payroll deductions, sharing the cost with employees. The state sets the contribution rate, adjusting it periodically based on the program’s financial needs. Employers with fewer than 25 employees are exempt from contributing the employer portion of the premiums but still need to collect and remit employee contributions.
Can I Extend My Paid Family Leave With Massachusetts?
Generally speaking, you can take no more than 26 weeks of combined family and medical leave per benefit year. However, extensions may be possible if you need additional leave for a different qualifying reason, such as transitioning from medical leave to family leave. If you’re unsure whether you can extend your leave, contact the Department of Family and Medical Leave for specific rules pertaining to situations like yours.
Preparing for Massachusetts PFML
If you’re planning to use your MA PFML benefits, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the basics of the law’s requirements. Take a few minutes to review eligibility requirements, gather necessary documentation, and the filing process. This way, you’ll be prepared for each stage of the process and familiar with your rights under the law.
If, at any point, you believe your employer may have violated your rights under PFML law, don’t hesitate to contact our skilled employment lawyers at the Fogelman Law Firm. We can help you understand your rights and legal options and take the next steps. Contact us today at (617) 559-1530 or complete our online contact form to learn more about how we can help you.
