Massachusetts paid sick leave
Under the Massachusetts Earned Sick Time Law, employees accrue 1 hour per 30 hours worked, up to 40 hours a year.
Informational, not legal advice. Checked against Congressional Research Service report R48921 and the state's own labour department. Statutes change every session — confirm against the primary source linked below before setting a policy. Last verified 18 August 2026.
The rule, in detail
| Accrual rate | 1 hour per 30 hours worked |
|---|---|
| Annual accrual cap | 40 hours |
| Annual use cap | 40 hours |
| Carryover | Permitted, capped at 40 hours |
| Frontloading allowed | Yes |
| Waiting period before use | 90 days |
| Employer size threshold | 11+ employees |
| Payout on termination | Not required |
| Effective from | 1 July 2015 |
Notes
Employers with fewer than 11 employees must provide the same accrual unpaid.
Covered reasons
- Employee illness
- Family care
- Domestic violence
- Routine medical appointments
Apply this in PTODesk
Pick “Massachusetts statutory sick leave” when creating a policy and these values are filled in for you, including the remainder carry that partial hours require.
Try for free