Minnesota Paid Leave launched January 1, 2026, and it covers caring for a family member

If you’re a worker in Minnesota who has been waiting for a real paid-leave program, it’s here. As of January 1, 2026, Minnesota Paid Leave is officially open. Eligible employees can take paid time off to care for a family member with a serious health condition, among other reasons.[1]

What it covers

Minnesota’s program, administered by the state’s Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED), provides paid leave for several life events:[2]

• Caring Leave, to care for a family member with a serious health condition
• Medical leave, for the worker’s own serious health condition
• Bonding leave, after the birth, adoption, or foster placement of a child
• Safety leave, for personal-safety situations like domestic violence or stalking
• Military family leave

You can take up to 12 weeks of Caring Leave in a benefit year, and up to 20 weeks total when you combine family and medical leave for multiple qualifying events.[2] The benefit replaces a portion of your wages, with rates that are more generous for lower earners. The state’s online portal has a calculator that estimates your weekly benefit based on your earnings.[1]

Who qualifies

Most W-2 employees who work in Minnesota are eligible, including full-time, part-time, seasonal, and temporary workers. Almost all employers are covered, regardless of size.[1]

What “caring” covers

Minnesota’s definition of caring leave is broad: you can use it to help a family member with daily activities, take them to medical appointments, or provide comfort and support while they recover from a serious health condition.[2]

How to apply

Applications are submitted online at paidleave.mn.gov.[1] You can apply up to 60 days before your leave begins, or as soon as you know you need it. Every application requires a certification document, typically a form completed by a healthcare provider for medical or caring leave.[1]