Is Disability and Paid Family Leave Benefits Coverage Required?
Elementary and High School Students
Disability and Paid Family Leave benefits coverage is not required for students in elementary or secondary school who work during the school year or during regular vacation periods as a part-time worker, because they are excluded from the definition of "employment" under the NYS Disability and Paid Family Leave Benefits Law.
Student Interns
Disability benefits with paid family leave coverage is required for student interns (paid or unpaid) who provide services to a for-profit business, a nonprofit organization, or a government agency.
Exception: Student interns who are engaged in a teaching capacity in or for a religious, charitable or educational institution (as designated under the IRS tax code) are exempt from mandatory coverage, but can be covered voluntarily.