Department of Family and Medical Leave (DFML)

The Department of Family and Medical Leave oversees the Commonwealth’s Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) program. This program provides temporary income replacement to eligible workers who are welcoming a new child into their family, are struck by a serious illness or injury, need to take care of an ill or ailing relative, and for certain military considerations.

Quick links

Read the draft regulations 
Contribution rates for employers 
Learn about our key dates 
Paid Family Medical Leave for employers FAQ 
Paid Family Medical Leave for employees FAQ 

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Email MassPFML@Mass.gov
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Who we serve

Beginning in January of 2021 most workers in Massachusetts will be eligible to get up to 12 weeks of paid family leave and up to 20 weeks of paid medical leave. The program will be funded by premiums paid by employees, employers, and the self-employed. Contributions to the program will begin on July 1, 2019, and will be managed through the Department of Family and Medical Leave (DFML) per MGL c.175M as added by St. 2018, c.121.

PFML benefits timeline
3/31/2019 – Publish regulations for collecting contributions and processing benefits
7/1/2019 – DFML begins collecting contributions from employers
1/1/2021 – Benefits available for bonding with a new child, servicemember-related events, and serious personal health conditions
7/1/2021 – Benefits available for the care of a family member with a serious health condition

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Paid Family Medical Leave for employers FAQ 
Paid Family Medical Leave for employees FAQ 

Recent news & announcements

News

EOLWD to host listening sessions on draft Paid Family and Medical Leave regulations 

1/08/2019 Department of Family and Medical Leave

We invite you to attend and share your comments on the implementation of the draft regulations.

Press Release

Governor Baker Signs Grand Bargain Legislation 

6/28/2018 Office of Governor Charlie Baker and Lt. Governor Karyn Polito

Compromise bill creates a permanent sales tax holiday, increase in minimum wage and a new paid family and medical leave program in Massachusetts

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