Higher Paid Family Leave Benefits Coming to New York in 2025

Starting January 1, 2025, workers in New York will see an increase in Paid Family Leave benefits, according to the state’s Workers’ Compensation Board. Eligible employees can now receive up to $14,127.84 in total benefits, a $313.92 increase from 2024. Additionally, pregnant workers will gain more paid time off for prenatal care under the state’s Paid Sick Leave program.

Paid Family Leave offers up to 12 weeks of job-protected, paid time off for bonding with a new child, caring for a sick family member, or assisting during a family member’s overseas military deployment. Benefits include 67% of an employee’s average weekly wage, capped at $1,177.32 per week, reflecting the updated state average weekly wage of $1,757.19.

Employees fund the program through payroll deductions, which will slightly increase to a maximum of $354.53 annually, or 0.388% of gross wages.

Eligibility extends to most private employees, with full-time workers qualifying after 26 weeks and part-time workers after 175 days of employment. Applications require 30 days’ notice when possible, and employers must submit claims to insurers, who have 18 days to decide.

Employers and workers can find resources, including a benefits calculator and educational webinars, through the Workers’ Compensation Board website. These changes reflect New York’s ongoing commitment to supporting families and working parents.

Source: Rochester First