Paid Sick & Family Leave
On March 18, 2020, Governor Cuomo signed emergency legislation guaranteeing job protection and pay for New Yorkers who have been quarantined as a result of novel coronavirus, or COVID-19. This new law will help ensure that New Yorkers are able to care for their family without jeopardizing their economic security.
New York State Paid Sick & Family Leave
A new NY State law provides 14 days sick pay on top of existing paid time off for those employees who work for employers with more than 100 employees and are ordered to quarantine or isolate. Employers with 5-99 employees must provide 5 days paid, followed by access to paid family leave or temporary disability. You must follow the procedures for accessing this COVID-19 paid sick leave, including obtaining an order from your local health department or, if not immediately available, obtaining an attestation from your medical provider that you meet the criteria for quarantine or isolation.
Under New York State’s paid family leave law, you can access up to 10 weeks of partial wage replacement to care for a close family member with a serious health condition.
If your employer does not provide the required paid sick leave, you may file a complaint with the NYS Department of Labor.
Frequently Asked Questions
I was told to quarantine by a doctor or by my local health department. Am I eligible for assistance?
YES. And you will have job protection for the duration of the quarantine. You are eligible to receive 100% of your normal wages for sick leave, paid for by your employer, for up to 14 days paid sick leave (if you work for an employer with at least 100 employees). There is no waiting period. However, because you are an essential health care worker, you may need to return to work after seven days if you are asymptomatic and have been fever free without a fever-reducing medication for 72 hours. Click here for guidance on what documentation you need and for more information on how to apply.
I can’t work because I have to be home to care for my child or family member who is quarantined. Am I eligible for assistance?
Maybe, but only if you work for an employer with less than 100 employees. You may receive a Paid Family Leave benefit of 60% of your average weekly wage for the duration of quarantine. Click here for more information on how to apply.