How to Use Paid Sick Leave - New York City Guide

Labor and Employment New York 3 Minutes Read · published February 02, 2026 Flag of New York

New York City, New York workers can use paid sick leave for their own illness, medical care, or to care for family members; employers must follow local rules when employees request time off. This guide explains eligibility, notice and documentation, step-by-step request actions, enforcement and appeals, and where to file complaints with the City. Read the steps, collect the right records, and follow the official complaint route if an employer denies lawful paid sick leave.[1]

Eligibility

Eligibility depends on employer size, hours worked, and job classification under the City’s paid sick leave rules. Check your employer policy and keep clear records of hire date and hours worked.

  • Document your hire date, schedule, and hours worked.
  • Confirm your employer’s written sick-leave policy, if provided.
  • Note accrual and use rules set by your employer and the City.
Keep written records of requests, approvals, and any employer responses.

Notice and Documentation

Provide notice to your employer as soon as practicable for foreseeable and unforeseeable absences. Employers may request reasonable documentation for extended absences; required documents and timing are defined by employer policy and City guidance.

  • For planned care, give advance notice per your employer’s rules.
  • For longer leaves, provide medical certification if requested and reasonable.
  • Keep employer communication in writing when possible.

Requesting Leave - Step-by-step

Follow these actions to request paid sick leave and document the process.

  1. Notify your supervisor or HR in writing, stating dates and reason for leave.
  2. Submit any requested medical documentation promptly and keep a copy.
  3. If paid leave is denied, request the employer’s written reason and the policy citation.
  4. If unresolved, file a complaint with the City agency that enforces paid sick leave.[2]

Penalties & Enforcement

The Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP), which administers and enforces New York City paid sick leave rules, handles complaints and investigations. Specific monetary penalties for violations are not specified on the cited City page; see the official enforcement and complaint instructions linked below.[1]

  • Enforcer: Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP) administers complaints and investigations.
  • Fines: not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation: first, repeat, or continuing offence ranges are not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: orders to pay back wages, corrective orders, or other administrative remedies may be imposed; specific remedies are described in enforcement guidance or determined during investigation.
  • Inspection and complaints: file a complaint online with DCWP or follow the agency guidance to submit evidence and statements.[2]
  • Appeal/review: appeal routes and time limits are not specified on the cited page; the DCWP complaint outcome notice will list review options if applicable.
  • Defences/discretion: employers may assert lawful exemptions or reasonable defenses; specific discretionary allowances are case-specific and not enumerated on the cited page.
Keep copies of all employer notices and your supporting documents in case of an enforcement review.

Applications & Forms

The City provides an online complaint form for alleged violations; there is no separate employer form required to request leave from your employer. For filing a complaint, use the DCWP complaint portal linked below.[2]

FAQ

Who is covered by New York City paid sick leave?
Coverage depends on employer size and hours worked; check City guidance and your employer policy for specifics.
Can my employer require a doctor’s note?
Employers may request reasonable documentation for extended absences; exact requirements depend on policy and City guidance.
How do I file a complaint if my employer denies lawful leave?
File a complaint with the City agency that enforces paid sick leave using the official DCWP complaint portal linked below.[2]

How-To

  1. Check your employer’s sick-leave policy and confirm eligibility.
  2. Notify your employer in writing with dates and reason for the leave.
  3. Provide medical documentation if requested and keep copies.
  4. If denied, request written reasons and file a complaint with DCWP as described on the official City page.

Key Takeaways

  • Document requests and employer responses to protect your rights.
  • Use the City complaint portal to report denials or retaliation.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of New York - Paid Sick Leave guidance
  2. [2] City of New York - File a worker complaint

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