Gov. Gavin Newsom today announced that California has increased paid family leave and disability benefits to historic levels in the state, with eligible workers earning less than $63,000 per year now able to receive up to 90% of their regular wages while on leave. Workers earning above that threshold will receive 70% of their wages.

Both represent an important increase, and this major benefit enhancement begins with new claims filed on or after January 1, 2025.

The benefit increase, enacted under Senate Bill 951, will make it significantly more affordable for workers to take time off for pregnancy, childbirth, recovery from illness or injury, or to care for seriously ill family members. It will also help families bond with new children or support loved ones during military deployment abroad

The new law “will ensure every California worker can afford to care for their family and themselves during life’s most important moments,” said Sen. Maria Elena Durazo, sponsor of the bill.  “I applaud Gov. Newsom for signing my bill into law, which will allow middle and low paid workers to receive up to 90% of their wages when out on leave. This change will benefit millions of workers who have contributed to the program during their careers. This bill is part of the historic work California is doing to expand equitable access to paid leave.”

Employment Development Department Director Nancy Farias said the benefit boost “makes it more affordable to take time off work and care for an ill family member, bond with a child, or recover from illness or injury. These investments strengthen California’s workforce and improve the lives of millions of Californians.”

Key details of the 2025 benefit increase

• Workers earning less than $63,000 annually will receive up to 90% of their regular pay.
• Higher-income workers will receive up to 70% of their regular pay.
• The increase applies to new claims filed on or after January 1, 2025. Claims filed in 2024 will continue at the 2024 rates of 60-70% of weekly wages.

Disability and paid family leave programs in California provide critical support to more than 18 million workers and their families, funded through payroll contributions. Eligible workers can receive up to 52 weeks of disability benefits and up to 8 weeks of paid family leave benefits.