Massachusetts Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) Calculator
Estimate your 2026 weekly benefit, total paid leave payout, and income gap under Massachusetts law. Eligible workers receive up to $1,230/week for up to 12 weeks.
Max Weekly Benefit
$1,230
2026 statutory cap
Max Duration
12 Weeks
Bonding / Caregiving
Wage Replacement
80%
Of average weekly wage
Waiting Period
7 Days
Before benefits start
Worked Example: A $75,000 Salary on MA PFML
Here is how the Massachusetts statutory formula applies to a typical worker earning $75,000 per year ($1,442/week):
Gross weekly income before leave ($75K ÷ 52)
Based on 80% of wages up to 50% of state average weekly wage; 50% on remainder
Total income shortfall over 12 weeks
Key Program Rules
- ✓Up to 12 weeks of family leave to bond with a child or care for a sick relative
- ✓Up to 20 weeks of medical leave for the employee’s own serious health condition (up to 26 weeks combined limit)
- ✓Maximum weekly benefit capped at $1,230 for 2026
- ✓7-day waiting period where no PFML benefits are paid (PTO may be used during this time)
Statutory Disclosures
- Administering Agency
- Department of Family and Medical Leave (DFML) →
- Tax Treatment
- Subject to federal income tax; exempt from Massachusetts state income tax.
- Payroll Contribution
- 0.88% total contribution (split between employee and employer tiers)
- Job Protection
- Statutory job protection applies directly under MA PFML law, prohibiting retaliation and requiring reinstatement.
Frequently Asked Questions About MA PFML
How is the Massachusetts PFML benefit calculated?
Massachusetts replaces 80% of your earnings up to 50% of the state average weekly wage, plus 50% of your earnings above that amount, up to a hard cap of $1,230 per week in 2026.
Can I top off Massachusetts PFML with PTO?
Yes! Massachusetts law permits employees to supplement or "top off" their PFML benefits with accrued employer-provided paid leave (sick days, vacation, PTO) up to 100% of their average weekly wage.
How many total weeks can a mother take in Massachusetts?
A birthing mother can qualify for medical leave for pregnancy and postpartum recovery (typically 6–8 weeks) followed by 12 weeks of family bonding leave, subject to an overall combined maximum of 26 weeks in a benefit year.
Sources: Department of Family and Medical Leave (DFML), our methodology.
Compare With Other State Paid Family Leave Programs
Explore paid leave formulas and weekly caps across other states with statutory programs: