This page provides essential information regarding key state-specific labor laws, employee rights, and compliance requirements. Our goal is to ensure you have easy access to the necessary documents and information to understand your rights and obligations while working remotely in Maryland.
Tax Withholdings
As a fully remote employee, you are responsible for ensuring the correct amount of federal and state income tax is withheld from your paycheck.
- Federal Income Tax: Complete Form W-4 (IRS) Employee's Withholding Allowance Certificate to figure the correct amount of federal income tax to have withheld from your paycheck.
- State Income Tax: As a fully remote employee working in Maryland, you are required to complete Form MW507, Employee's Maryland Withholding Exemption Certificate. This form allows you to select your desired state income tax withholding. If you do not submit this form, your withholdings will be withheld at the default rate.
Please submit both completed forms to the Payroll Office via the secure Payroll Office FileSender.
Leave Policies
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Maryland's Healthy Working Families Act requires most employers to provide earned sick and safe leave to employees whose primary work location is in Maryland. Employees accrue one hour of sick leave for every 30 hours worked, up to a maximum of 40 hours per year. The leave can be used for personal health needs, family care, public health emergencies, or matters related to domestic violence or sexual assault. Employers with 14 or fewer employees are required to provide unpaid earned sick and safe leave.
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Maryland Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FAMLI) Program
- Maryland is launching a paid family and medical leave program. Starting January 2028, eligible workers can take job-protected time off with partial pay (up to $1,000/week for up to 12 weeks) for their own or a family member's serious health condition, or for welcoming a new child. The program is funded by employer and employee contributions.
Workplace Rights & Posters
Workers' Compensation
Worker's Compensation coverage extends to remote employees who suffer a work-related injury or illness while performing their job duties. For an injury to be covered, it must arise out of and in the course of employment. If you have any questions, please contact the Office of Risk Management.
How to Claim Unemployment Insurance Benefits
If you become unemployed through no fault of your own and meet eligibility requirements, you may be able to claim Unemployment Insurance Benefits through the Maryland Department of Labor website. You will generally need to be able to work, available for work, and actively seeking work.
Important Note: This information is a summary and is subject to change. For complete details and the most current regulations, please refer to the official Maryland Department of Labor website and consult with Lehigh University's HR and Payroll departments for specific guidance.