On Friday afternoon, the NYS Department of Financial Services announced the 2019 Paid Family Leave updates and changes. You can review the updates on the NYS PFL website.
As intended, the number of weeks eligible employees can take will increase to 10 weeks, effective January 1, 2019. The benefit will also increase to 55% of the employee’s average weekly wage, capped at 55% of the state’s average weekly wage. For 2019, the state’s average weekly wage will be $1,357.11. Therefore, the maximum weekly benefit will increase to $746.41.
The employee contribution rate will increase as well. In 2019, the contribution is 0.153% of an employee’s gross wages each pay period. The maximum annual contribution is $107.97. Employees earning less than the current Statewide Average Weekly Wage of $1,357.11 will contribute less than the annual cap of $107.97, consistent with their actual wages.
Additionally, you will be required to update your PFL policies reflecting the 2019 changes. You can find new model language on the PFL website as well, in the Employer Resources section.
For questions on this update and NYS Paid Family Leave, contact: