Some professionals are eligible for paid time off provided by their employers. Paid time off could include sick leave, vacation leave and personal days. Unfortunately, not every professional has access to paid time off provided by their employers.
Those experiencing major personal events may find themselves in need of time away from work but concerned about the financial implications of taking the leave that they require. New York state statutes actually allow for workers without paid time off and those who have already used all of their paid time off benefits to request paid leave from their employers.
Who is eligible for paid leave?
Under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), a federal statute, employees can take unpaid leave in certain cases. New York expanded on that statute by passing a law that mandates paid family leave.
Full-time professionals who have held their jobs for at least 26 weeks could be eligible for up to 12 weeks of paid leave from their jobs. Part-time employees could be eligible after working 175 days. They do not receive their full wages but rather two-thirds of their usual pay.
Qualifying circumstances include the addition of a child to the family, a personal medical emergency or the need to support a loved one’s medical care. Employees who cannot afford to go completely without income could benefit from taking paid leave if they qualify.
Professionals who are eligible can request paid leave and return to their jobs without risking termination or other penalties. Both employers and employees can benefit from learning more about the unique employment laws that apply in New York.