Minnesota Paid Family & Medical Leave

Minnesota Paid Family & Medical Leave — Starting January 1, 2026

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Minnesota is launching a new statewide Paid Family & Medical Leave program. This applies to all employees working in Minnesota.

What It Provides

Up to 12 weeks of paid medical leave
Up to 12 weeks of paid family leave
(20 weeks maximum per year)

Examples:

• Your own illness or surgery

• Pregnancy or childbirth recovery

• Bonding with a newborn or adopted child

• Caring for a seriously ill family member

• Military-related leave

• Domestic violence/safety leave

How You Get Paid

• Benefits are paid directly by the State of Minnesota

• You apply through the state website

• The state decides if you qualify

What You Need to Do

1. Tell your supervisor when you expect to need leave

2. Apply to the State of Minnesota for Paid Leave

3. Provide your approval notice to management

Job Protection

If you've worked at least 90 days, your job (or an equivalent job) is protected.
Your health insurance continues as long as you pay your normal share.

Payroll Deductions

Minnesota requires a small payroll premium starting January 1, 2026.
The cost is shared between you and the company.

Questions?

Talk to your Administrator or HR for help with scheduling or next steps.

Payroll Deduction Wording (for pay stubs or onboarding forms)

 

Minnesota Paid Leave Program Payroll Contribution

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Beginning January 1, 2026, Minnesota requires payroll contributions for the Paid Family & Medical Leave Program. The 2026 premium is 0.88% of wages. Your employer pays at least 50% of this premium. The remaining portion may be deducted from employee wages as allowed by law.

This deduction will appear on your paycheck as:
“MN Paid Leave – Employee Contribution”

The employer’s contribution will appear as:
“MN Paid Leave – Employer Contribution”

These contributions fund the state program that pays benefits directly to eligible employees.