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Benefits for Workers Impacted by COVID-19 (Coronavirus)

Paid Leave for COVID-19 (Coronavirus) Impacted New Yorkers

Due to the outbreak of COVID-19 (Coronavirus) in New York State, emergency legislation has been enacted by Governor Andrew M. Cuomo guaranteeing workers job protection and financial compensation in the event that they, or their minor dependent child, are placed under a mandatory or precautionary order of quarantine or isolation due to COVID-19.

Most of those who qualify will receive financial compensation using a combination of benefits, which may include new employer-provided paid sick leave, Paid Family Leave, and disability benefits. Employees who are still able to work remotely or by other means are not eligible for these benefits.  Paid Family Leave is available for those who must care for a seriously ill family member.

For more information, including how to apply, call (844) 337-6303 or visit https://paidfamilyleave.ny.gov/covid19

Unemployment Benefits for Those Out of Work Due to Closures or Quarantines

While the Family First Coronavirus Response Act enacted by the federal government includes extended unemployment benefits, New York State does not qualify for these benefits at this time.  In the meantime, NYS has lifted the 7-day wait period to apply for Unemployment Insurance benefits for those who are out of work due to COVID-19 closures or quarantines. 

For more information, including how to apply, call (888) 209-8142 or visit https://www.labor.ny.gov/unemploymentassistance.shtm

Federal Government Initiatives for Workers Impacted by COVID-19

The Families First Coronavirus Response Act (effective April 1, 2020) https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/pandemic

National Health Emergency Dislocated Worker Grants https://www.dol.gov/newsroom/releases/eta/eta20200318

Other U.S. Department of Labor Coronavirus Resources https://www.dol.gov/coronavirus