Beginning January 1, 2025, Delaware employer contributions for the program will begin. Then, by January 1, 2026, employers will need to be registered and provide notice to their employees.

Important Dates and Information for Employers:

• September 1, 2024 – December 1, 2024: Employers can opt-in or opt-out using the Delaware LaborFirst system. This period is also for setting up accounts and choosing between public and approved private plans.

• By December 1, 2024: Employers must set up an account with Delaware LaborFirst.

• By December 2, 2024: Employers must provide employees with a Notice of Employee Rights. New employees should receive this notice upon hire (must send the notice 30 days prior to January 1, 2025, according to the current rules).

• January 1, 2025: Payroll deductions for the program begin. Contributions and hours/wage information will be collected 30 days after each quarter ends.

• April 30, 2025: The first wage and hour report and contribution payment are due.

• January 1, 2026: Paid Leave benefits become available to employees, providing job protection.

Program Coverage:

• Mandatory for businesses with 10 or more employees:

• 1 to 9 employees: Exempt, but may opt-in.

• 10 to 24 employees: Parental leave coverage only.

• 25+ employees: Full coverage for all lines of Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML).

Online Portal:

• Available 24/7 for guidance on eligibility, enrollment, contribution calculation, claims management, and appeals.

Employee Notice Requirements:

• Employers must notify employees of any changes in coverage within 30 days of the change.

• Any changes in the employee/employer contribution split must be communicated to the Division and all employees by December 15 of the preceding year.

• Written notice must be provided to all existing Delaware-based employees at least 30 days before contributions start on January 1, 2025.

For additional information:

• Delaware Paid Leave PPT and Resources
• Delaware Paid Leave Webpage and Resources

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