This article is the third installment in our ongoing series designed to help Minnesota businesses understand and prepare for the new Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) program. If you missed it, start with the first two articles in the series: Understanding Minnesota’s new paid leave law and Employer exemption process explained.

1. Unemployment Insurance (UI) Account

Most employers already have a UI account. You will use it to:

• File quarterly wage reports
• Pay PFML premiums
• Assign your company’s Paid Leave Administrator (the individual responsible for managing PFML)

2. Paid Leave Administrator Account

This is a new account you will need to create. It will be used to:

• Register your business for PFML
• Manage ongoing reporting and premium payments
• Oversee employee leave claims once the program begins
• Submit a request to use a private plan instead of the state program (if applicable)

Key dates

• Fall 2025: Paid Leave Administrator portal opens
• Jan. 1, 2026: PFML benefits officially begin
• April 2026: First wage report due (for January–March 2026) via the UI system

Action steps for employers

Step 1: Designate a Paid Leave Administrator

• Log in to your existing UI account
• Designate one or more individuals as Paid Leave Administrators
• These individuals will receive email confirmation

Step 2: Create the Paid Leave Administrator account

• After receiving confirmation, go to the PFML website
• Select Continue as a Paid Leave Administrator
• Click Create an Employer Account
• Use the email address associated with the confirmation and create a password
• Sign in and select the correct business (if managing multiple companies)

At this point, your PFML account setup will be complete.

If you use a payroll provider (e.g., ADP, Gusto, Paychex, Intuit)

• Quarterly reporting and premium payments: Confirm with your provider that your account setup is correct before processing 2026 payroll.
• Leave administration: Your HR team remains responsible for approving leave and managing claims unless you have contracted your provider for HR services.

Stay informed

Visit the state’s PFML employer website for the latest updates and resources.