Services For Working Families

The New York State Department of Labor is committed to fostering an equitable economy by safeguarding worker rights, ensuring fair wages, and connecting every family to support services to help them thrive.

Our Mission

At the New York State Department of Labor, our mission is to strengthen New York's workforce and support every working family. We are committed to building an economy that works for all by ensuring fair wages, safe workplaces, and equal opportunities.

Working families come in all shapes and sizes, but the one thing they share is the challenges they face. New York has worked hard to support these families to help New Yorkers build careers, communities, and futures for their families

Coming in 2027 – Digital Youth Working Papers

In 2027, NYSDOL will introduce a new digital process for young workers to receive their working papers. Instead of exchanging and filing a piece of paper, young workers and businesses will use a one-stop online portal maintained by NYSDOL. Any business planning to employ eligible workers under 18 will need to create an account in the NYSDOL portal. Then, employers will be able to access the working papers of the candidate they want to hire. Employers will no longer need to keep a young person’s working papers physically on file at their work site. The new process will provide easy digital access and reduce fines related to lost working papers. Additional updates will be provided on our Working Papers page.

Services for Working Families

Paid Leave & Benefits for Working Families

Access the nation’s strongest paid leave program. New York State ensures your job and income are protected when you need time to bond with a new child, care for a seriously ill family member, or address pregnancy-related care.

Youth

We have lots of services available to help youth and young adults navigate the world of work and plan for the future.

Child Care Resources

We believe in supporting New York’s working families every step of the way. With reliable childcare, financial support, and workplace protections—every family has the foundation...