Several states administer wage-replacement programs funded through employee payroll contributions. These programs are managed at the state level and operate separately from PTO or sick time policies.
Because eligibility, contribution rates, and benefits vary by state, your coverage depends on your primary work location.
Paid Family & Medical Leave (PFML)
State Paid Family & Medical Leave (PFML) programs may provide job-protected leave and partial wage replacement for qualifying events, including:
Bonding with a newborn child
Adoption or foster placement
Caring for a seriously ill family member
The employee’s own serious health condition (in certain states)
Qualifying military-related events
Benefit duration, wage replacement percentages, and payroll contribution requirements vary by state.
PFML programs are typically funded through payroll deductions, which may appear on your pay statement where applicable.
New York Employees: PFML Exemption
If you work in New York, you may be eligible to request an exemption from Paid Family Leave payroll deductions if you meet the state’s exemption criteria (for example, based on your regular work schedule).
An employee may qualify for a PFL exemption if they will:
Work 20 or more hours per week but will not work 26 consecutive weeks,
ORWork fewer than 20 hours per week and will not work 175 days in a 52-week period.
If you believe you qualify and would like to opt out of New York Paid Family Leave payroll deductions:
Fill out the NY PFML Exemption Form
Email the completed form to us-payroll@worksome.com
Once approved, payroll deductions will be adjusted accordingly.
Please note that exemption eligibility is determined based on New York State guidelines.
State Disability Insurance (SDI)
In select states, State Disability Insurance provides partial wage replacement when an employee is unable to work due to:
Non-work-related illness
Injury
Pregnancy-related disability
These programs are typically funded through state payroll deductions and administered in coordination with state agencies.
1. Why am I seeing PFML or SDI deductions on my paycheck?
If you work in a state that mandates Paid Family & Medical Leave or State Disability Insurance, payroll deductions are required by law to fund those state programs.
2. Can I opt out of PFML?
In most states, PFML participation is mandatory if you meet eligibility requirements.
In New York, you may request an exemption only if you do not expect to meet the state’s minimum work thresholds.
3. Do I apply for PFML or SDI through Worksome?
Claims are filed directly with the state agency that administers the program. Please email us-payroll@worksome.com to complete the necessary employer requirements.
4. How much will I receive if I qualify?
Benefit amounts are determined by state formulas and are usually a percentage of your average weekly wage, subject to a state maximum.
5. Where can I get help?
For questions about eligibility, deductions, or exemption requests, please contact: