As of January 1, 2020, the New Jersey Department of Labor announced increases in the maximum benefit rates and taxable wage base as of January 1 for its Unemployment Insurance, Temporary Disability Insurance, Family Leave Insurance and Workers’ Compensation programs. It uses a statewide average weekly wage (SAWW) to determine worker’s compensation benefits every year. In 2020, the SAWW is calculated to be $1259.82.
Total disability wage loss benefits are subject to a maximum of 75% of the SAWW. The minimum rate is 20%. While the range continues to be 20% to 75% of the SAWW, a worker’s benefits will be based on 70% of a worker’s average earnings. The maximum rate in 2020 is $945 per week.
The level of taxable wages in 2020 increased to $35,000 for employers covered under the Temporary Disability insurance program, as well as workers and employers covered under the Unemployment Insurance program, the Workforce Development Partnership Program and the Supplemental Workforce Fund for Basic Skills. Significant increases in these benefits will go into effect later this year. They will be covered by a law enacted last year that will increase the maximum benefit rate and extend the maximum amount of leave available.
Starting July 1, the maximum weekly benefit rate for Temporary Disability and Family Leave Insurance claims will increase from $667 to $881. The maximum amount of continuous leave will increase, as well as the amount of intermittent leave. Applicants who earn at least $200 per week for 20 base weeks, or at least $10,000 during those weeks, will be eligible for Unemployment, Temporary Disability, or Family Leave benefits.
As of October 1st 2019, the criteria for eligibility was based on the state minimum wage of $10 per hour for most employees. Employer contributions to the Trust Fund for Unemployment Insurance benefits decreased from .7 percent to .6 percent. If you have any questions about your rights and are located in the Mercer County area, contact this office.
The Law Office of H. Benjamin Sharlin LLC
is owned and operated by H. Benjamin Sharlin and serves all of Mercer County, New Jersey and the surrounding areas. Mr. Sharlin is a bilingual Spanish-speaking attorney who vigorously represents the interests of all his clients.
Call (609) 585-0606 or click the button below to schedule an appointment