Maryland FAMLI Declaration of Intent: A 2026 Employer Checklist
For employers seeking a 2027 private plan and a seeding-period contribution exemption, the Maryland Declaration of Intent (DOI) is filed between September 1 and November 15, 2026. This checklist walks through who files, what is required, and the decision timeline — so you can prepare before the window opens.
By SSGI Benefits
Published · Last reviewed
Who files the Declaration of Intent
The Declaration of Intent is filed by employers who want to offer a private plan for the 2027 program year instead of participating in the Maryland State Plan. The Authorized Officer registers the employer and submits the DOI per Employer Identification Number (EIN).
- Employers seeking a 2027 private plan in lieu of the Maryland State Plan.
- Employers seeking a seeding-period contribution exemption.
- The Authorized Officer registers the employer and submits the Declaration of Intent per EIN.
When to file
The DOI window opens and closes . File within this window to pursue a 2027 private-plan path. An accepted DOI does not by itself mean the private plan is approved — during the 2027 seeding period, applicable contributions must be held as required while approval is pending.
Proof of Private Plan Consultation
A licensed insurance agent or Maryland insurer representative must complete and sign the Proof of Private Plan Consultation. The Authorized Officer then uploads and submits it as part of the DOI filing. SSGI is an independent benefits agency and advisor — we are not the plan approver, insurer, or claims administrator.
Decision timeline
Maryland says it will notify the Authorized Officer of the DOI outcome within 15 business days. Confirm the current decision timeline with the Maryland Department of Labor, as processing windows may change.
What comes next
Private-plan applications are expected to open summer 2027 and are due October 1, 2027. Contributions and payroll deductions are scheduled to begin January 1, 2027, and all employers must electronically file quarterly wage-and-hour reports even when using a private plan. Confirm exact dates with the Maryland Department of Labor.
For the full FAMLI timeline, contribution snapshot, and a side-by-side comparison of the State Plan, a commercial private plan, and an eligible self-insured plan, see the Maryland FAMLI program page.
What SSGI can help with
SSGI provides consultation and evaluation support for employers considering a private plan. We help you understand the State Plan, evaluate commercial private-plan options, and prepare payroll, leave, and employee communications.
- SSGI does not act as the Authorized Officer for the Declaration of Intent.
- SSGI does not guarantee approval of any private plan.
- SSGI does not provide legal or tax advice.
Information current as of .
Sources
- Maryland Department of Labor — Understand Your PlanOfficial Maryland FAMLI employer guidance on plan options and the Declaration of Intent.
This article is educational only and is not legal, tax, or compliance advice. Maryland FAMLI timing and requirements may change. Consult the Maryland Department of Labor and qualified counsel before making plan decisions. Official Maryland Department of Labor guidance controls.
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