If you are self-employed or an independent contractor, you’re not automatically covered by Paid Leave Oregon. This means you don’t have to pay into the program and you don’t get the benefits. However, you can participate by choosing coverage. If you choose coverage, you will pay 0.6% of your annual net income in contributions, up to a maximum of $132,900 in income (for 2023). This is the same portion of the contribution rate employees pay, but you will pay quarterly. When you choose coverage, you must also agree to pay contributions for at least three years and report your annual net income each year. Paid Leave uses this information to calculate your contribution amount. Self-employed people have been able to choose coverage since Jan. 1, 2023 and can apply for leave beginning Aug. 14, 2023.