Minnesota Paid Family and Medical Leave Begins January 1, 2026 – What It Means for You

Starting January 1, 2026, Minnesota will launch the Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) program. This new statewide benefit gives workers job protected and paid time off for major life events that affect their health or the health of their family members.

What is Minnesota Paid Leave?

Minnesota PFML provides two types of leaves.

Medical Leave:

• Up to 12 weeks for your own serious health condition.

Family Leave:

• Up to 12 weeks for bonding with a new child (birth, adoption or foster placement).
• Caring for a family member.
• Military family leave.
• Leave related to safety concerns.

A worker can use up to 20 weeks total per benefit year when combining medical and family leave.

How Does Pay Work?

Workers receive partial wage replacement based on their income, up to the weekly maximum set by the state.

Job Protection

Your position is protected after you have been employed for 90 days.

How is PFML Funded?

• PFML is funded through payroll premiums.
  • Total premium in 2026: 0.88% of taxable wages in 2026.
• Employers pay 0.44% and Workers pay the remainder.

What This Will Look Like at PICS

• Participant employers must follow the state administered plan. There is no option to waive paid leave premium contributions.
• Worker payroll deductions will begin on the first payroll paid in 2026 (12/14/25 – 12/27/25 pay period).
• PICS or the Participant Employer will cover 0.44% of the premium.
• PICS team members do not make decisions about eligibility or payment. All applications, approvals and benefit payments are handled by the State of Minnesota.
• Workers received individual notices regarding PFML. If you would like a copy of the notice, contact your service coordinator.

Learn More

For full details, visit Minnesota Paid Leave.