Attention, New Yorkers! Workers will receive better benefits in 2025
New York workers will see enhanced Paid Family Leave benefits in 2025, including higher weekly payouts and improved job protections. Learn about the changes and how they impact you.
Starting January 1, 2025, New York workers will see enhanced benefits through the state’s Paid Family Leave (PFL) program. These updates aim to provide better financial support and job security for employees during critical family and medical events.
The improved benefits align with New York's ongoing commitment to supporting workers and families, ensuring that employees can take time off when needed without sacrificing financial stability. Here's what you need to know about the new changes.
Key changes to Paid Family Leave benefits in New York for 2025
1. Increased Weekly Benefits
Workers on Paid Family Leave can now receive 67% of their average weekly wage, capped at $1,177.32 per week. This is an increase from the previous cap of $1,151.16 in 2024, providing more substantial financial assistance during leave periods.
2. Higher Total Benefits
Eligible workers taking the full 12-week leave can now receive up to $14,127.84 in total benefits, marking a notable increase compared to last year’s amount.
3. Adjusted Employee Contributions
To support these enhanced benefits, the employee contribution rate has been revised to 0.388% of gross wages per pay period, with a maximum annual contribution of $354.53. This is a slight increase from the 2024 rate of 0.373%.
New York State has implemented significant enhancements to its Paid Family Leave (PFL) program. Photo: Freepik.
What is Paid Family Leave
New York’s Paid Family Leave (PFL) program provides eligible employees with up to 12 weeks of paid, job-protected time off to address significant life events. These include welcoming a new child, caring for a family member with a serious medical condition, managing personal health issues, or supporting loved ones during a spouse's, domestic partner’s, child’s, or parent’s active military deployment abroad.
The program ensures that workers can take time off while receiving a portion of their wages, allowing them to focus on family matters without risking their job security or financial stability. Experts emphasize that such benefits are vital for families, as they provide the flexibility to manage important responsibilities without compromising their livelihoods.
Who is eligible for Paid Family Leave?
New York's PFL program provides job-protected, paid time off to employees for the following situations:
- Bonding with a new child: This includes birth, adoption, or foster care placement.
- Caring for a family member: Eligible employees can care for a relative with a serious health condition.
- Supporting military families: Workers can assist loved ones during a family member’s active military deployment abroad.
During the leave period, workers are also entitled to maintain their health insurance benefits under the same terms as when they are actively working.