Massachusetts labor laws
The pay and leave rules Massachusetts employers most often ask about: posting salary ranges, paid sick leave, overtime and state leave programs.
Last verified November 2, 2026. Sources: mass.gov, mass.gov.
Pay transparency
Status: in effect since October 29, 2025. Who's covered: 25+ employees in MA.
good-faith pay range in postings; range on request for current employees and promotions
Employers may not ask applicants about their pay history.
Paid sick leave
Massachusetts requires paid sick leave: 1 hour per 30 hours worked, capped at 40 hours. Coverage: 11+ employees paid; under 11 unpaid.
Overtime
Non-exempt employees earn 1.5 times their regular rate for hours over 40 in a workweek under the Fair Labor Standards Act. Retail employers: Sunday/holiday premium pay requirements largely phased out (2023).
State paid leave and disability insurance
- Paid Family and Medical Leave: employees contribute 0.46% of wages, employers 0.42%. 2026 total 0.88% for employers with 25+ covered individuals: employee up to 0.46% (family 0.18% + 40% of medical 0.70% = 0.28%), employer at least 0.42%. Employers <25: total 0.46%, all may be withheld, no employer share. 2027 (Ch. 101 of 2026) swaps family/medical allocation but totals/shares unchanged.
Frequently asked questions
- Does Massachusetts require salary ranges in job postings?
- Yes. good-faith pay range in postings; range on request for current employees and promotions Coverage: 25+ employees in MA.
- Is paid sick leave required in Massachusetts?
- Yes. 1 hour per 30 hours worked, up to 40 hours.
- When is overtime due in Massachusetts?
- For non-exempt employees, at 1.5 times the regular rate after 40 hours in a workweek. Retail employers: Sunday/holiday premium pay requirements largely phased out (2023).