What could you be paid?
67% of average weekly wages, capped at 67% of the New York State average weekly wage. For 2026 the statewide wage is $1,833.63, making the weekly cap $1,228.53.
Who may qualify?
For a regular schedule of at least 20 hours weekly, eligibility generally begins after 26 consecutive weeks. For fewer than 20 hours weekly, generally after 175 days worked. Public-sector participation and excluded employment require a separate check.
What protects your job?
Paid Family Leave includes job restoration and continuation of health coverage on the usual contribution terms. Notify the employer and keep the carrier’s approval.
Recovery leave and bonding
PFL does not cover your own birth recovery. New York disability benefits are separate. Disability plus PFL may not exceed 26 weeks in a 52-week period and cannot be paid for the same days.
Notice, dates, and deadlines
Bonding is within the first 12 months. Give 30 days’ notice when foreseeable. Submit the completed request to the carrier within 30 days after leave starts to avoid risking benefits.
How to apply
Ask the employer for the PFL insurance carrier. Use forms PFL-1 and PFL-2 with birth or placement documentation; submit to the carrier, not a general state benefits account.
Before you choose your dates
Ask for one written timeline showing the source of pay and the protection for each part of your absence. Include prior leave used, any waiting period, employer top-up rules, health-premium payments, and the first scheduled workday after leave. The maximum listed above is not a personal approval.
Your application folder
- Employer contact, work location, hire date, wage records and schedule.
- Proof of birth or placement accepted by the program.
- Medical certification only when the requested leave reason requires it.
- Proposed dates, any split schedule, and the employer’s notice confirmation.
- Submitted forms, receipt numbers, decisions, and appeal deadlines.
After approval, check whether continuing certifications or weekly claims are required. Report work, other payments and date changes accurately. A state payment approval does not automatically update the employer’s absence record.
Official sources & further reading
Source review: October 7, 2026. Rules can change; the administrator makes the final determination.