Quick Answer
Maryland PFML deducts 0.75% of your wages up to the Social Security wage base ($176,100 in 2026). On a $55,000 salary, this equals $412.50/year or about $15.87 per biweekly paycheck. Benefits begin in January 2026 and provide up to 90% wage replacement for family and medical leave.
Best Answer
Sarah Chen, Payroll Tax Analyst
Maryland W-2 employees subject to PFML contributions
How much is the Maryland PFML deduction?
Maryland's Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) program deducts 0.75% of your gross wages, with costs shared between you and your employer. The employee contribution rate varies by year:
The deduction applies to wages up to the Social Security wage base, which is $176,100 in 2026. This means your maximum annual PFML contribution as an employee is $880.50 ($176,100 × 0.50%).
Example: PFML deductions at different salary levels
Here's how Maryland PFML affects paychecks across various income levels (using 2026 rates):
*High earners pay the same maximum amount regardless of income above $176,100.*
What benefits does Maryland PFML provide?
Starting January 1, 2026, eligible Maryland employees can receive:
Medical Leave Benefits:
Family Leave Benefits:
Combined Maximum: 14 weeks total per year (medical + family leave)
How much will PFML pay me?
Maryland PFML provides up to 90% of your average weekly wage, calculated on a sliding scale:
Example calculation: If you earn $60,000/year ($1,154/week), you might receive around $850-900/week in PFML benefits - significantly more than typical short-term disability.
Eligibility requirements and timing
To qualify for benefits, you must:
Important timing: Contributions started in October 2023, but benefits don't begin until January 2026. This gives the program time to build reserves before paying claims.
Key factors affecting your PFML contribution
What you should do
Monitor your pay stub for the "PFML" line item and verify the deduction amount matches 0.50% of your gross wages (starting 2026). If you're planning to start a family or have ongoing health concerns, understand that PFML will provide significantly better benefits than unpaid FMLA leave.
Use our [paycheck calculator](paycheck-calculator) to model how PFML impacts your take-home pay alongside Maryland state income tax and other deductions.
Key takeaway: Maryland PFML costs 0.50% of wages (maximum $880.50/year starting 2026) and provides up to 90% wage replacement during family and medical leave - typically worth thousands more than the annual contribution cost.
*Sources: [Maryland Department of Labor PFML Division](https://www.dllr.state.md.us/employment/mdfamileave/), [IRS Publication 15](https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p15.pdf)*
Key Takeaway: Maryland PFML costs 0.50% of wages starting 2026 (max $880.50/year) but provides up to 90% wage replacement for up to 14 weeks of combined family and medical leave.
Maryland PFML contribution rates and maximums by year
| Year | Employee Rate | Employer Rate | Total Rate | Max Annual (Employee) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024-2025 | 0.50% | 0.25% | 0.75% | $880.50 |
| 2026+ | 0.50% | 0.50% | 1.00% | $880.50 |
| Wage Base | Same as Social Security | Same as Social Security | ($176,100 in 2026) | Indexed Annually |
More Perspectives
Sarah Chen, Payroll Tax Analyst
New Maryland workers starting their careers and building benefit eligibility
Understanding PFML as a new Maryland employee
If you're new to the Maryland workforce, you'll see "PFML" deductions on your paycheck starting from your first day. This might feel frustrating when you're trying to maximize your take-home pay, but understanding what you're buying is crucial.
The investment perspective for young workers
On a $40,000 entry-level salary, PFML costs you:
That's less than a streaming service subscription, but the protection is vastly more valuable.
Why this matters early in your career
Many young employees think they're invincible, but consider these real scenarios:
Building your eligibility clock
To qualify for PFML benefits, you need:
As a new employee earning $40,000/year, you'll likely become eligible within 6-9 months of starting work. Track your hours and earnings - this investment in future security is automatic once you meet the thresholds.
Pro tip: Unlike employer-provided short-term disability (which many entry-level jobs don't offer), PFML follows you between jobs as long as you stay in Maryland.
*Remember: You're contributing to benefits that start in January 2026, so even if you're just starting your career, you'll have this protection available when life happens.*
Key Takeaway: For new Maryland workers, PFML costs about $7-15 per paycheck but provides essential income protection during health or family crises when savings and job security may be limited.
Sources
- Maryland Department of Labor PFML Division — Official Maryland PFML program information and rates
- IRS Publication 15 — Employer's Tax Guide for payroll deductions
Reviewed by Sarah Chen, Payroll Tax Analyst on February 28, 2026
This content is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional tax advice. Consult a qualified tax professional for advice specific to your situation.