The Massachusetts Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) program has been amended to allow employees to use their employer-provided, accrued paid leave (e.g., sick time, vacation time, personal days) to supplement their PFML benefits. This change will take effect November 1, 2023. Additionally, new MA PFML contribution and benefit rates have been announced for 2024.

PFML Amendment

• For PFML claims initiated prior to the November 1 effective date, employees may only use their employer-provided paid time off during the seven-day waiting period in which they do not receive any PFML benefits. Once the waiting period ends, only short-term disability benefits may be used concurrent with PFML benefits.
• Beginning November 1, employees will be allowed to apply other paid leave in order to bridge any gap between their regular pay and the PFML benefits for which they are eligible.
• Use of other paid leave while receiving PFML benefits is at the employee’s discretion. Employers may not compel employees to use their other paid time off while on an approved PFML leave.
• This change applies to all Massachusetts employers, whether they contribute to the state PFML program or have a private plan exemption.

Updated Contribution Rates

• Maximum weekly PFML benefits, which are based on the Commonwealth’s average weekly wage, will increase to $1,444.90 in 2024, up from $1,129.82 in 2023.
• For 2024, the contribution rate will increase to a maximum of 0.88% of eligible wages, up from 0.63% in 2023. Employer contributions are calculated differently based on employer size.
  • For employers with 24 or fewer covered individuals, a contribution of 0.18% of the employee’s wages will be withheld for family leave, while a contribution of 0.28% of the employee’s wages will be withheld for medical leave. No employer contribution is required.
  • For employers with 25 of more covered individuals, a contribution of 0.18% of the employee’s wages will be withheld for family leave, while a contribution of 0.28% of the employee’s wages will be withheld for medical leave. The remaining 0.42% contribution is the responsibility of the employer.