St. Paul, MN – As of March 15, nearly 34,000 Minnesotans have been approved for leave since Minnesota's Paid Leave program began, according to new data release today by the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED).   

Two-thirds of all applications are being approved or denied within three weeks. So far, Minnesota Paid Leave has processed nearly 50,000 applications.

"Minnesota Paid Leave is working according to plan," said DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek. "I am proud we delivered this program on time and under budget, and that Paid Leave is delivering timely service and payments, reinforced by strong program integrity measures to ensure funding goes where it is needed. Paid Leave makes it possible to be there for the moments that matter and makes Minnesota a better place to work, live and raise a family."

Application tips

To help ensure an application is processed smoothly, Minnesotans should:

• Get on the same page with their employer. Confirm leave schedule and other benefits.
• Complete certification documentation. Make sure the required documentation is completed and signed by a provider.
• Submit a complete application. Verify identity with LoginMN, ensure leave details are entered correctly and match certification documentation.

Longer application processing times are typically due to fraud protection checks, application errors or discrepancies, or additional information needed from the applicant, their employer, or their health care provider. Applicants should respond to any requests for information quickly and completely to avoid delays. Each application is individually reviewed by staff to prevent fraud and ensure funds go toward their intended use.

About Minnesota Paid Leave

Minnesota Paid Leave is a statewide program administered by DEED. Paid Leave makes it possible for Minnesotans to care for themselves and their families during life's most important moments.

Minnesota is one of 13 states in the nation to offer paid family and medical leave. Paid Leave offers up to 12 weeks of paid, job-protected leave to welcome a new child, care for a loved one or manage their own medical needs. Workers needing both family and medical leave in the same benefit year may qualify for up to 20 weeks total.

Learn more: Minnesota Paid Leave