Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) in MA
The Massachusetts Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) program offers paid, job-protected time off during treatment. New Growth Recovery helps you navigate the process and provides licensed staff to certify the medical need for leave.
PFML Eligibility Help Form
This form gives us the details we need to check your eligibility and prepare the medical certification for your PFML application. After you submit it, our team will contact you to explain the next steps and gather any additional information.
How PFML Works
If you work in Massachusetts and meet PFML rules, you may qualify for paid, job-protected time off while you’re in treatment. PFML is funded through employer and employee contributions and is separate from federal FMLA or any private benefits offered by your employer.
Quick Facts
- Treatment for substance use disorder (SUD) counts as a serious health condition when certified by your provider
- You may take up to 20 weeks of medical leave, 12 weeks of family leave, and 26 weeks combined per year
- The maximum weekly payment in 2025 is $1,170.64, with your exact benefit based on your wages
- Your job and health insurance are protected, and changes during or 6 months after leave may be retaliation
How New Growth Helps With PFML
New Growth provides PFML support for patients in our Extended Day Treatment (PHP) and Day Treatment (IOP) programs. Our team works closely with you and your employer to make sure your leave is properly certified and supported from start to finish.
Confirm likely eligibility and explain the PFML process clearly, without offering legal advice
Coordinate DFML medical certification with your clinician, signed by Megan Collins, LICSW, or Devin Valletta, LADC I
Guide you step by step through the DFML online portal or your employer’s private leave process
Provide an employer or HR notice template with clear instructions for workplace communication
Supply clinical documentation such as admission dates, schedules, visit summaries, and discharge records
Align your treatment schedule so it matches the leave dates approved by DFML or a private plan
Prepare and submit all required paperwork through case management, overseen by Program Director Emily Hescock
FAQs About PFML
Who qualifies for PFML in Massachusetts?
Most workers qualify if they meet the earnings test in the last 4 completed quarters. For 2025, you must have earned at least $6,300 and at least 30× your weekly benefit amount.
Does treatment for substance use disorder qualify?
Yes. SUD treatment qualifies as a serious health condition when you’re under a certified provider’s care. Your provider completes a DFML medical certification.
How many weeks can I take?
Up to 20 weeks of paid medical leave for your own serious health condition, with a maximum of 26 weeks total per benefit year.
How much will I be paid?
PFML pays a percentage of your weekly wage, up to $1,170.64 in 2025. Your approval notice will confirm your exact benefit.
Is there a waiting period?
Yes. The first 7 calendar days are unpaid and count toward your total. For intermittent leave, the waiting period starts after your first absence.
Who pays me during leave?
PFML benefits come from the state DFML program or your employer’s private plan. Your regular wages usually pause, though some employers allow PTO “top-off.”
Do I have to tell my employer?
Yes. You should notify your employer at least 30 days in advance and apply to DFML (or your private plan) for benefits.
Can my employer change my job or benefits while I’m on PFML?
No. PFML includes job protection and health insurance continuation. Any negative change during leave or within 6 months after is presumed retaliation.
Can I work part-time or take intermittent leave?
Yes. PFML allows continuous, reduced schedule, or intermittent leave if clinically appropriate.
How soon can I apply?
Apply up to 60 days before your leave date, once your provider’s certification is ready.
Disclaimers
- This page provides general information and is not legal advice
- PFML rules, benefit amounts, and contribution rates change each year
- Final eligibility and payment decisions are made by DFML or your employer’s approved private plan
- Due to Massachusetts licensing, New Growth Recovery uses “Extended Day Treatment” and “Day Treatment.” These are comparable to a Partial Hospitalization Program and an Intensive Outpatient Program, respectively.
