Insurance & Benefits Guide for Bloomington
Complete guide to PFML, health insurance, and employee benefits for Bloomington residents and retail workers
Minnesota PFML in Bloomington
Overview
Bloomington is Minnesota's fifth-largest city and home to Mall of America, the nation's largest shopping center. With over 88,000 residents and thousands of retail workers, Bloomington is expected to see approximately 3,200 PFML claims in 2026.
Leave Duration
Up to 12 weeks per leave type, 20 weeks maximum combined
Benefit Amount
55%-90% of wages, up to $1,423 per week maximum
Eligibility
Earned at least $3,900 in Minnesota wages in past year
Major Bloomington Employers Covered by PFML
PFML for Mall of America & Retail Workers
Mall of America employs over 11,000 people. Here's what retail workers need to know about PFML.
Part-Time Retail Workers
You're Covered
Part-time workers are eligible for PFML. Work 20 hours/week? You qualify if you earned $3,900+ annually.
Benefits Based on Your Wages
Your benefit amount is calculated based on your actual earnings, not full-time equivalents.
Multiple Jobs Count
Work at Mall of America + another job? Combined wages count toward eligibility.
Common Retail Worker Scenarios
New Parent
Take up to 12 weeks of bonding leave. Get 55%-90% of your wages to spend time with your new baby.
Medical Leave
Need surgery or recovery time? PFML covers up to 12 weeks for your own serious health condition.
Caring for Family
Care for a sick parent, spouse, or child. PFML provides income while you're away from work.
📋 Important for Retail Workers
- •Talk to your manager first: Let your employer know before applying for PFML
- •Job protection: You can return to the same or similar position after PFML leave
- •Benefits continue: Your employer health insurance stays active during leave (if you have it)
- •Easy application: Apply online at paidleave.mn.gov
Free PFML Help in Bloomington
Hennepin County - Bloomington Office
Free PFML assistance, health insurance enrollment, benefits counseling
Bloomington Community Health
MNsure enrollment, walk-in help available
Health Insurance in Bloomington
MNsure Plans in Hennepin County
Bloomington residents (Hennepin County) have access to 47 health insurance plans through MNsure for 2026.
| Plan Tier | Avg Premium | With Subsidy* |
|---|---|---|
| Bronze | $475-575 | $100-200/mo |
| Silver | $575-710 | $150-300/mo |
| Gold | $710-880 | $200-400/mo |
*Subsidy estimate for income around $35,000/year
For Retail & Service Workers
Many retail and service jobs don't offer health insurance. Here's what you need to know:
✓ You Likely Qualify for Subsidies
- • Income under $60,240 → subsidies available
- • Retail wages typically qualify for $200-400/mo savings
- • Part-time workers often get significant help
💡 Tips for Enrollment
- • Open enrollment: Nov 1 - Jan 15
- • Job change = special enrollment (60 days)
- • Free help available at Hennepin County offices
Bloomington-Specific FAQ
I work part-time at Mall of America. Am I eligible for PFML?
Yes! Part-time workers are eligible. As long as you earned $3,900 in Minnesota wages in the past year, you qualify. Your benefit amount will be based on your actual part-time wages.
My employer doesn't offer health insurance. Can I get coverage?
Absolutely! This is what MNsure is for. As a retail/service worker without employer coverage, you likely qualify for substantial subsidies. With income around $30-40k, you could pay just $150-250/month for good coverage.
I work two part-time jobs. How does PFML work?
Great question! Your combined wages from both jobs count toward PFML eligibility. When you apply, both jobs are included in calculating your benefit amount. You may take leave from one or both jobs.
Does Bloomington have its own sick time law like Minneapolis?
No. Bloomington doesn't have a city sick time ordinance. Only state PFML applies, which simplifies things for both workers and employers.
Ready to Navigate Your Bloomington Benefits?
Calculate your PFML benefits or find affordable health insurance