Employee Coverage Requirements

As an employer in New York State, you are required to provide certain coverage for your employees. Learn more about the requirements in the following sections. An Accountant and a Bookkeeper can help you stay on top of these requirements. 

Workers' Compensation

Workers’ compensation is a mandatory type of coverage for most employers of one or more employees. It protects employers from liability related to on-the-job injuries. It provides eligible employees with legal support, protection from lawsuits, payment of medical services, and temporary wages. You can obtain worker’s compensation insurance through a private carrier, the NY State Insurance Fund, or through self-insurance. You will need a valid EIN to apply. 

Learn more about Workers' Compensation


Disability Benefits Insurance 

New York State requires employers to provide disability benefits coverage to employees for an off-the-job injury or illness. You can obtain coverage through a state-licensed disability benefits insurance carrier, or if you are large enough, you can self-insure. You must have a valid EIN to obtain coverage. 

Disability Benefits provide weekly cash benefits to replace lost wages due to injuries or illnesses that do not arise from employment. Medical care is the responsibility of the employee. 

Learn more about Disability Benefits Insurance


Paid Family Leave Insurance

NYS requires most private employers to provide Paid Family Leave insurance. Paid Family Leave coverage is typically a part of any Disability Benefits insurance policy. 

Learn more about Paid Family Leave Insurance


Unemployment Insurance 

NYS requires employers to register for Unemployment Insurance when they meet certain conditions. These conditions change based on what type of business you operate. Before you register, you must have an EIN. You can learn more about the program and register online by visiting the NYS Department of Labor. 

Learn more about Unemployment Insurance

Reporting Requirements

Every employer who is liable under NYS UI law must file a Quarterly Wage Report with the Department of Labor. You can file NYS-45 online.  

File NYS-45

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