States with Paid Family Leave in 2025
Federal FMLA is unpaid, but 13 states now offer paid family leave. See which states have programs, what they pay, and how to apply.
Introduction
Federal FMLA guarantees job protection—but not a paycheck. The good news? More states than ever now offer **paid family leave (PFL)** programs that provide wage replacement while you're off.
States with Mandatory Paid Family Leave
As of 2025, these states have active paid family leave programs:
| State | Max Duration | Wage Replacement | Program Start | |-------|-------------|------------------|---------------| | **California** | 8 weeks | 60-70% | 2004 | | **New Jersey** | 12 weeks | 85% | 2009 | | **Rhode Island** | 6 weeks | 60% | 2014 | | **New York** | 12 weeks | 67% | 2018 | | **Washington** | 12 weeks | Up to 90% | 2020 | | **Massachusetts** | 12-26 weeks | 80% | 2021 | | **Connecticut** | 12 weeks | 60% | 2022 | | **Oregon** | 12 weeks | Up to 100% | 2023 | | **Colorado** | 12 weeks | Up to 90% | 2024 | | **Maryland** | 12 weeks | Up to 90% | 2025 | | **Delaware** | 12 weeks | 80% | 2026* | | **Minnesota** | 12 weeks | 90% | 2026* | | **Maine** | 12 weeks | 90% | 2026* |
*Programs starting soon—benefits not yet available
How Paid Leave Works
### Funding Most programs are funded through **payroll taxes**—small deductions from your paycheck (and sometimes employer contributions). You're already paying into it.
### Eligibility Requirements vary by state but typically include: - Minimum earnings in the past year - Currently employed or recently employed in the state - A qualifying reason (new child, serious health condition, family care)
### Applying 1. File a claim with your state's program (usually online) 2. Provide documentation of your qualifying event 3. Wait for approval (typically 1-2 weeks) 4. Receive payments during your leave (usually direct deposit)
Can I Get Both FMLA and State PFL?
**Yes!** In most cases, FMLA (job protection) and state PFL (wage replacement) run **concurrently**. This means:
- 12 weeks of protected leave (FMLA)
- + 12 weeks of paid leave (state PFL)
- = 12 weeks total, with **both** protections
What If My State Doesn't Have PFL?
If your state isn't on the list:
- Check if your employer offers **paid parental leave** as a benefit
- Use accrued **PTO or sick leave** during FMLA
- Look into **short-term disability insurance** for your own medical conditions
Conclusion
Paid family leave is expanding rapidly. If you live in a covered state, you're entitled to wage replacement during your leave. Check your state's program website for specific details and how to apply.
**Find your state:** Visit our [State Leave Laws](/states) page for direct links and details.
*LEGAL DISCLAIMER: The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to be legal advice. Benefit amounts and eligibility requirements change frequently. Check your state official program website for current information. Nothing on this site should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation.*
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