How the Minnesota Paid Leave weekly benefit is calculated
Minnesota Paid Leave is a brand-new state program — premiums started being collected in 2025, and the first benefits were paid starting January 1, 2026. It replaces part of your wages while you're on approved family or medical leave. For 2026, Minnesota's state average weekly wage (SAWW) is $1,423. If you searched pl.mn.gov for a calculator to see how much you'll get, this page runs the same tiered math instantly. The formula is tiered in three steps, so lower earners get a higher replacement rate:
How long does the benefit last?
Minnesota Paid Leave provides up to 12 weeks of medical leave (for your own serious health condition, including pregnancy and childbirth recovery) and up to 12 weeks of family leave (bonding, caring for a family member, military exigency, or safety leave). You can use both in the same benefit year, but combined leave is capped at 20 weeks total.
Minnesota Paid Leave FAQ (2026)
How much will I get from Minnesota Paid Leave?
Minnesota uses a three-tier formula: 90% of your average weekly wage up to $711.50, plus 66% of the amount between $711.50 and $1,423, plus 55% of anything above that. However it's calculated, your weekly benefit can't exceed $1,423 — the 2026 state average weekly wage itself.
Is Minnesota Paid Leave really new?
Yes. Unlike Washington, California, or New Jersey, Minnesota's program only began paying benefits on January 1, 2026. Employer and employee premium contributions started in 2025 to fund it.
Who is eligible for Minnesota Paid Leave?
You need to have earned at least $3,900 in wages — about 5.3% of the state's average annual wage — from a covered Minnesota employer during your base period, the four completed calendar quarters before your claim. This can come from one job or be combined across multiple employers. See pl.mn.gov for the exact thresholds.
Is the benefit taxable?
Paid Leave benefits are generally expected to be treated as taxable income for federal purposes, similar to other state paid-leave programs, but confirm current guidance with the IRS or a tax professional.