Paid Leave Filings, Benefit Payments Are Underway

September 4, 2023

Paid Leave Filings, Benefit Payments Are Underway

NFIB members are reminded that applications for the state’s Paid Leave Oregon program began August 14 and benefits started September 3. According to Paid Leave Oregon, “When your employees apply for Paid Leave benefits, you will receive a letter in the mail notifying you of your employee’s application. You will also see some changes in your Frances Online account, including:

Notifications in your Frances Online Action Center, which are marked on the screen with a red exclamation point

Requests for your response to questionnaires, including confirming the person applying is currently working for your business

“Your timely response makes sure we have what we need to process your employee’s benefits application quickly and accurately. If you don’t respond by the due date, we may have to move the claim forward without your information.” Paid Leave Oregon advises employers to review and update their Frances online account. According to the agency’s news release, “Paid Leave Oregon covers paid family leave, medical leave, and safe leave for working Oregonians. Benefits will start Sept. 3, but the program is accepting applications in the Frances system now to make sure there’s enough time to review initial claims. Benefit payments will begin to go out within two weeks of Sept. 3. Employees can apply through Frances Online for the following reasons:

To care for themselves or members of their family during the birth of a child, or to bond with a child after birth, adoption, or placement of a child in their home through foster care

To care for themselves during a serious health condition

To care for a family member when they have a serious health condition

If they or their child experience sexual assault, domestic violence, harassment, or stalking

“After sending in their application, employees should expect a two-week wait before they start to receive benefit payments. Employees must notify their employers 30 days in advance for planned paid leave. They cannot apply earlier than 30 days before the start date of their paid leave for benefits.”

Someone filling out Leave of Absence Request Form.