What Does It Cover?
New York State Disability Insurance (DBL) provides partial wage replacement to employees who are unable to work due to an off-the-job injury or illness. It also covers disabilities arising from pregnancy and childbirth. This is a short-term disability benefit designed to help bridge the income gap when an employee cannot perform their regular work duties due to health issues unrelated to their employment.
Weekly Statutory Benefits and Duration
Under the current law, eligible employees can receive 50% of their average weekly wage, up to a maximum benefit of $170 per week. Benefits begin on the eighth consecutive day of disability and can last for up to 26 weeks in a 52-week period.
This benefit amount has not increased in decades and is often insufficient to cover living expenses, which is why many employers explore ways to enhance the coverage (more on that below).
Are Disability Benefits Taxable?
- If the employer pays the premium, benefits may be taxable income to the employee.
- If the employee pays the entire premium, the benefit is not taxable.
- If the cost is shared, the portion paid by the employer is taxable, while the employee-paid portion is not.
Who Pays the Premium?
New York allows the employer to deduct up to 60 cents per week from each employee’s paycheck to help cover the cost of disability insurance. However, many employers opt to pay the full premium as part of their benefits package.
Ultimately, the employer is responsible for ensuring the coverage is in place, even if they pass along a portion of the cost to employees.
Can You Increase the Weekly Benefit Amount?
Yes, employers can enhance the statutory benefits by purchasing enriched disability coverage, sometimes called “enhanced DBL.” This increases the weekly maximum an employee can receive, providing more meaningful income support.
How Much Can You Increase the Limit To?
The benefit limit can be increased up to $850 or more per week, depending on the carrier and policy selected. Enhanced plans can also offer shorter waiting periods and additional perks such as 24/7 access to nurse lines or employee assistance programs (EAPs).
New York Paid Family Leave Act: Supporting Families in Need
What Does It Cover?
New York Paid Family Leave (PFL) provides job-protected, paid time off for employees who need to:
- Bond with a new child (birth, adoption, or foster placement),
- Care for a family member with a serious health condition,
- Assist loved ones when a family member is deployed abroad on active military service.
PFL is available to full-time and part-time employees who meet minimum work requirements and is designed to promote work-life balance during major life events.
Weekly Benefit Amount
As of 2025, eligible employees can receive 67% of their average weekly wage, up to 67% of the New York State Average Weekly Wage (NYSAWW).
For example, if the NYSAWW is $1,718.15, the maximum weekly benefit would be approximately $1,151.16.
Employees can take up to 12 weeks of Paid Family Leave in a 52-week period.
Who Pays the Premium?
PFL is funded entirely by employees through payroll deductions. Employers are required to facilitate the deduction and remit payments to their insurance carrier. The state sets the maximum contribution annually based on the NYSAWW.
Are PFL Benefits Taxable?
Yes. Paid Family Leave benefits are considered taxable non-wage income. They must be included in federal gross income. However, taxes are not automatically withheld, so employees may need to request voluntary withholding or prepare to pay taxes later.
Meet BGES Group: Your Partner in Navigating NY Disability and PFL Coverage
Navigating the complexities of disability insurance and family leave benefits can be overwhelming—especially for small and mid-sized businesses. That’s where BGES Group comes in.
Who They Are
BGES Group is a specialized insurance brokerage that focuses on helping New York State business owners obtain and manage their Disability Benefits Law (DBL) and Paid Family Leave (PFL) coverage. With decades of experience and a client-first approach, BGES Group ensures that businesses are not only compliant but also equipped with benefit plans that truly support their employees.
How BGES Group Can Help
- Customized Benefit Plans: BGES Group can tailor disability insurance plans to include enhanced DBL coverage that significantly increases the weekly benefit amount.
- Competitive Pricing: They work with multiple top-rated insurance carriers to offer the most competitive rates.
- Expert Guidance: From setting up coverage to ongoing administration and compliance support, BGES Group simplifies the entire process.
- Fast, Friendly Service: You won’t get lost in a phone queue. BGES Group is known for their responsive customer service and hands-on approach.
- Additional Business Coverage: In addition to DBL and PFL, BGES Group offers workers’ compensation, general liability, commercial auto, umbrella insurance, and more.
Why Work With BGES Group?
If you’re a New York business owner looking for a reliable, knowledgeable partner to help you with disability and PFL insurance, BGES Group is the name to know. They combine personalized service with professional expertise, giving you peace of mind and your employees the protection they deserve.
Contact Information for BGES Group
Ready to upgrade your employee benefits or need help navigating New York’s DBL and PFL requirements? Reach out to BGES Group today:
- Phone: Gary Wallach – (914) 806-5853
- Email: info@bgesgroup.com
- Website: www.bgesgroup.com
Conclusion
Understanding and managing New York State Disability and Paid Family Leave coverage is essential for businesses of all sizes. Whether it’s complying with legal requirements or providing more robust benefits to attract and retain talent, BGES Group can help you every step of the way. With expert advice, tailored solutions, and a commitment to customer service, they’re the trusted partner New York businesses rely on.
Make the smart move—contact BGES Group today and ensure your business and employees are protected.