Minnesota Paternity Leave
Your complete guide to paid paternity leave for new fathers under Minnesota PFML. Learn how to take time to bond with your new child.
Quick Answer: How Much Paternity Leave Do Fathers Get?
New fathers in Minnesota can receive up to 12 weeks of paid bonding leave through PFML:
- Bonding Leave: Up to 12 weeks to bond with your new child
- Flexibility: Take anytime within 12 months of birth/adoption
- Pay: 55-90% of your wages, up to ~$1,500/week
- Job Protection: Your job is protected (employers with 30+ employees)
Ways to Take Your Paternity Leave
Take It All at Once
12 weeks continuousTake all your bonding leave immediately after birth
- Maximum time with newborn
- Easier to plan and manage
- Full support during early weeks
- Partner can return to work
Split with Partner
Coordinated timingStagger leave with your partner for extended coverage
- Baby has parent home longer
- Delays daycare start
- Both parents get bonding time
- Financial flexibility
Intermittent Leave
Flexible scheduleTake leave in smaller increments (requires employer approval)
- Stay connected to work
- Attend appointments
- Gradual transition
- Extend leave period
Coordinating Leave with Your Partner
Both parents have separate PFML entitlements. Here's how many families coordinate:
Option A: Leave Together
• Both parents home for first few weeks
• Maximum support during recovery
• Share nighttime duties
• Both return to work at same time
Option B: Stagger Leave
• Mom takes leave first (12 weeks)
• Dad takes leave when mom returns
• Baby has parent home for ~24 weeks
• Delays daycare start
Paternity Leave Timeline
Plan Your Leave
Discuss leave timing with your employer and partner. Decide when you want to take your bonding leave.
Notify Your Employer
Give your employer at least 30 days notice of your intent to take PFML bonding leave.
Apply for PFML
Submit your PFML application through the state portal. You'll need the birth certificate or hospital documentation.
Receive Approval
Get your benefit determination letter confirming your weekly benefit amount.
Begin Bonding Leave
Start your leave when it works for your family. Can be taken anytime within 12 months of birth.
Calculate Your Paternity Leave Benefits
Find out exactly how much you'll receive during your paternity leave. Enter your income to see your weekly benefit amount.
Open PFML CalculatorExample Benefits:
Important Things to Know
- • PFML benefits are effective January 1, 2026
- • You must have earned at least $3,500 in wages during your base period to qualify
- • Bonding leave must be used within 12 months of birth/adoption/placement
- • Job protection applies if your employer has 30+ employees
- • Unmarried fathers may need to establish paternity to qualify
Paternity Leave FAQ
Related Resources
Ready to Plan Your Paternity Leave?
Calculate your benefits and learn how to apply for Minnesota PFML.