Minnesota Paid Leave launched on January 1, 2026, providing job-protected leave and partial wage replacement for workers who need time away to care for themselves or their loved ones. The program is administered by the State of Minnesota and applies to most Minnesota employers and employees.

Thanks to funding from the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED), LBA is helping Longfellow businesses navigate the transition through educational resources, workshops, and one-on-one support.

Resources for Employers

What You'll Find Here

Whether you're just learning about Minnesota Paid Leave or actively preparing your business, this resource page includes:

• Employer responsibilities and key deadlines
• Premium contributions and cost information
• Employee notice requirements
• Leave administration guidance
• Small employer considerations
• State resources and helpful links
• Access to a free 15-minute consultation with Gina Lemon

What is Minnesota Paid Leave?

Minnesota Paid Leave provides eligible employees with paid time off for qualifying family and medical reasons while protecting their employment.

Covered leave may include:

Caring for your own serious health condition
Bonding with a new child through birth, adoption, or foster placement
Caring for a family member with a serious health condition
Military family leave
Safety leave related to domestic abuse, sexual assault, or stalking

Employees may qualify for up to 12 weeks of Medical Leave and up to 12 weeks of Family Leave, with a maximum combined total of 20 weeks in a benefit year. Qualifying conditions generally must last more than seven days and require certification from a healthcare provider or other designated professional.

What Employers Need to Know

Beginning January 1, 2026, employers may begin collecting employee contributions toward Paid Leave premiums.
The statewide premium rate is 0.66% of wages, with employers allowed to deduct up to 50% of the premium from employee paychecks. Employers may choose to cover a larger share if they wish. The first premium payments are due April 30, 2026.

Most Minnesota employers and employees are covered by Paid Leave. Covered workers generally include:
- Full-time employees
- Part-time employees
- Most seasonal workers
- Temporary workers
- Student workers
- Agricultural workers
- Owner-officers who receive a salary
- Employees of religious organizations
Independent contractors and self-employed individuals may choose to opt into the program. Federal employees and railroad workers are not covered.

Small employers may qualify for reduced employer premium contributions.
To qualify, a business must:
- Have 30 or fewer employees
- Have an average employee wage at or below 150% of the statewide average wage

Employers are required to:
- Display the official Minnesota Paid Leave workplace poster
- Notify employees about Paid Leave rights and benefits
- Provide notices in languages understood by employees when required
Employers should also review attendance, leave, and workplace policies to ensure they align with Paid Leave requirements.