As you may be aware, New York State Paid Family Leave provides eligible employees with up to 12 weeks of job protected, paid time off to bond with a new child, care for a family member with a serious health condition, or to assist loved ones when a family member is deployed abroad on active military service. This time can be taken all at once, or in increments of full days.
Employees taking Paid Family Leave receive 67% of their average weekly wage, up to a cap of 67% of the current New York State Average Weekly Wage (“NYSAWW”). Beginning January 1, 2026, the NYSAWW is $1,833.63, which means the maximum weekly benefit is $1,228.53. This is an increase of $51.21 from the maximum weekly benefit for 2025.
Employees earning less than the current NYSAWW of $1,833.63 will contribute less than the annual cap of $411.91, consistent with their actual wages. Employees earning the NYSAWW of $1,833.63 (about $95,300 a year) or more will contribute 0.432% from their gross wages each pay period until they reach the maximum of $411.91.
Employers should update their policies to reflect the upcoming changes. Should you have any questions or need assistance regarding the updates, please contact Ali Law Group.
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