Minnesota Paid Family Leave 2026: What You Need to Know

Minnesota Paid Family Leave 2026 is set to reshape the way workers in the state balance personal health, caregiving responsibilities, and their careers. With the law going into full effect on January 1, 2026, both employees and employers must prepare for the rollout of this significant statewide program.

Whether you're a Minnesota worker, employer, or HR professional, here’s everything you need to know about the Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) program.

What Is Minnesota Paid Family and Medical Leave?

The Minnesota Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) program is a state-run insurance initiative that provides partial wage replacement to eligible workers who need time off for qualifying family or medical reasons.

Signed into law in May 2023, the program is modeled after similar policies in states like California and Washington. It's designed to ensure that workers no longer have to choose between a paycheck and taking care of themselves or a loved one.

When Will the Program Begin?

• Premium collection starts: January 1, 2026

• Benefits become available: July 1, 2026

Employers and employees will begin contributing to the program via payroll deductions starting in early 2026, and benefits can be claimed beginning mid-year.

Who Is Covered Under Minnesota’s PFML?

All workers in Minnesota including full-time, part-time, seasonal, and temporary employees are covered by the program as long as they earn wages subject to unemployment insurance taxes.

Coverage includes:

• Private-sector employees.

• Public-sector employees (state and local government workers).

• Self-employed individuals (voluntary opt-in).

What Types of Leave Are Covered?

The Minnesota Paid Family Leave 2026 program provides up to 12 weeks of paid leave for each of the following:

1. Family Leave:  To care for a family member with a serious health condition, or to bond with a new child (biological, adopted, or foster).

2. Medical Leave:  For a worker’s own serious health condition, including pregnancy-related recovery.

3. Safety Leave: To address issues related to domestic abuse, sexual assault, or stalking.

Combined leave cannot exceed 20 weeks per year. For example, someone who uses 12 weeks for bonding with a new child may still qualify for up to 8 additional weeks of medical leave in the same benefit year.

Who Pays for Minnesota Paid Family Leave?

The program is funded by a shared payroll tax between employers and employees:

• Total contribution rate: Estimated at 0.7% of gross wages (this may adjust annually).

• Employer and employee split: Employers may share the cost with employees or choose to pay the full amount.

Small businesses with fewer than 30 employees may qualify for reduced employer contributions.

How Will Workers Apply?

Minnesota will launch a state-administered portal for workers to:

• Apply for leave

• Submit documentation

• Track benefit status

Applicants will need to provide proof of eligibility, such as medical certification or documentation of a birth, adoption, or other qualifying event.

Impact on Employers

Employers must prepare for the following:

• Payroll integration: Set up systems to begin PFML premium deductions starting Jan 2026

• Notice requirements: Inform employees of their rights under the law

• Job protection: Ensure employees who take leave are reinstated to their job or a comparable position upon return

Employers can also apply to use private plans instead of the state program, as long as the private plan meets or exceeds the state’s benefit standards.

Key Benefits of Minnesota Paid Family Leave 2026

• Financial stability: during critical life events.

• Workplace equity: supports low-wage workers who can't afford unpaid leave.

• Health and wellbeing for parents, caregivers, and recovering patients.

• Higher employee retention for businesses.

Click here to watch the explainer video

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Is Minnesota Paid Family Leave mandatory for all employers? Yes. All Minnesota employers, regardless of size, are required to participate or provide an equivalent private plan.

Q: Will part-time workers qualify? Yes. As long as they’ve earned enough qualifying wages, part-time and seasonal workers are eligible.

Q: Can I use both medical and family leave in the same year? Yes. You can combine up to 20 weeks of total paid leave if you qualify under both categories.

Q: How does this differ from FMLA? The FMLA (Family and Medical Leave Act) is federal, unpaid, and only applies to certain workers. Minnesota’s PFML offers paid leave and applies more broadly.

Final Thoughts

Minnesota Paid Family Leave 2026 is more than just a new benefit it's a statewide commitment to supporting families, promoting health, and strengthening the workforce. With the countdown to implementation underway, it’s vital for all stakeholders to prepare, stay informed, and take full advantage of this historic policy.