Sun Life U.S. Introduces Family Leave Insurance in Massachusetts to Enhance Employee Benefits

Sun Life U.S. Launches Family Leave Insurance in Massachusetts

On July 30, 2025, Sun Life U.S. announced the launch of its Family Leave Insurance (FLI) in Massachusetts, a significant step towards enhancing employee benefits in the region. This new offering allows employers in the state to extend family leave benefits to all their employees, including those working in other states, thereby ensuring that no one misses out on crucial time off to care for family needs or bond with a new child.

FLI serves as a crucial supplement to the existing paid family and medical leave (PFML) policy mandated in Massachusetts. While PFML provides basic income replacement for family and medical leave, FLI fills the gaps for higher-wage earners who may find that state benefits do not fully cover their income needs. This means that workers can take the time they need without financial burden, fostering a healthier work-life balance.

According to Sheila Sokolski, Vice President of Product Strategy and Portfolio Management at Sun Life U.S., "FLI is valuable across state lines, whether there are mandated leave programs or not, because it provides an important benefit to all employees equally." This statement highlights the significance of FLI in ensuring that employers can offer competitive benefits even in states with different leave regulations.

In addition to being beneficial for employees, FLI presents a valuable opportunity for smaller companies that want to provide comprehensive leave benefits without the risks associated with self-funding. With Sun Life’s extensive experience in disability leave and absence management, employers can trust that they are receiving a well-structured insurance product tailored to meet the needs of today’s workforce.

Furthermore, Sun Life's advocacy for paid leave has been well-documented; the company has worked diligently with state legislatures to promote private plan options alongside mandated leave programs. The company has also been a strong proponent of the recent federal paid leave tax credit for employers, reinforcing its commitment to aligning its offerings with evolving legislation.

FLI has already been made available in 14 other states, including Alabama, Florida, and Texas, among others, with plans to extend to Michigan and West Virginia soon. With this expansion, Sun Life continues to promote a culture of inclusivity and support across various regions.

Employees will appreciate the technology-driven aspect of FLI, including online claims submission. Employers are empowered with tools to track leave details effectively, contributing to better health management and productivity overall. For those interested in learning more about the program, Sun Life has made resources available, including recorded webinars that detail the features and benefits of FLI.

With the official start date set for quoting in Massachusetts, Michigan, and West Virginia on August 1st, Sun Life aims to expand its impact on employee well-being throughout 2025. The website www.sunlife.com/family serves as a comprehensive resource for further information about the Family Leave Insurance and other benefits offered by Sun Life U.S.

As Sun Life continues to lead the way in providing essential benefits to employees, its initiatives demonstrate a long-term commitment to enhancing the employee experience and supporting families across the nation.