20. Unemployed workers and former employees

Employees are eligible for PFML benefits for up to 6 months after separating from employment. It does not matter if they were fired, laid off, or quit. These workers have a unique base period. Normally, the base period of wages for financial eligibility is the last four completed calendar quarters prior to the first day of leave. However, G.L. c. 175M, § 1 says that for former employees, eligibility is determined “at the time of the former employee's separation from employment.” That means the base period will be the last four completed calendar quarters prior to separation from employment. (If DFML gets this wrong on the approval notice, appeal and ask for a base period correction.)

To apply for benefits, former employees must call the DFML call center using their former employer’s EIN. The online portal is only available to current employees. 

DFML will not approve an application filed using a former employer’s EIN if the worker is currently employed.