Massachusetts Employers Should Prepare for 2026 Paid Family and Medical Leave Updates
As Massachusetts employers look ahead to 2026, the Department of Family and Medical Leave (DFML) has released its annual updates to the Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) program . While the maximum weekly benefit will increase, the contribution rate remains steady. Here’s a breakdown of the key changes that take effect on January 1, plus three action items for employers. Maximum Weekly Benefit Increase Starting January 1, the maximum weekly PFML benefit employees may receive will be $1,230.39 per week, reflecting the state’s annual adjustment to keep pace with the statewide average weekly wage. This represents a modest increase from the $1,170.64 cap in 2025. For employees, this means greater wage replacement during covered leave periods. For employers with private PFML plans, this means ensuring plan benefits remain “equal to or greater than” the state program to maintain approval. Steady Contribution Rate Also effective January 1, the contribution rate on eligible employee wages w...