New York offer letter for employers
An offer letter confirms the job, pay, start date and employment terms in writing. Here is what changes when the employee works in New York.
New York rules that affect this form
| Minimum wage | $16.00 per hour |
|---|---|
| Overtime | No daily overtime; time and a half after 40 hours a week (44 hours for live-in residential workers). Employers must also pay one extra hour at minimum wage when the workday spans more than 10 hours or there is a split shift. |
| Paid sick leave | Yes: 1 hour per 30 hours worked; up to 40 hours paid per year for employers with 5-99 employees, 56 hours paid for 100+ employees; employers with 0-4 employees give 40 hours (unpaid unless net income exceeds $1 million). Separate 20 hours of paid prenatal leave per year since Jan 1, 2025. |
| Other rules to know | Pay transparency: employers with 4+ employees must include a good-faith pay range in job postings, promotions and transfers. New York Paid Family Leave and disability insurance cover most private-sector employees. Verify |
What to include
- Job title, manager, start date and work location (or remote status)
- Pay rate and pay frequency, and whether the role is exempt or non-exempt from overtime
- At-will employment statement (where at-will applies) so the letter is not read as a contract
- Contingencies such as a background check or Form I-9 verification
- Benefits summary and when eligibility starts, including any paid sick leave the state requires
- A clear accept-by date and signature line
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Frequently asked questions
Is there an official New York offer letter form?
New York does not publish one required offer letter for private employers. Use a clear template and make sure it reflects the New York rules on this page.
What is the minimum wage in New York in 2026?
$16.00 per hour, effective January 1, 2026. $17.00/hour in New York City, Long Island and Westchester; $16.00/hour in the rest of the state (effective Jan 1, 2026). The state announced rates will NOT change on Jan 1, 2027 because a statutory 'off-ramp' was triggered; the Governor has proposed a change that could allow an increase on March 1, 2027 if the Legislature approves. Home care aides have a separate, higher minimum.
Is paid sick leave required in New York?
Yes: 1 hour per 30 hours worked; up to 40 hours paid per year for employers with 5-99 employees, 56 hours paid for 100+ employees; employers with 0-4 employees give 40 hours (unpaid unless net income exceeds $1 million). Separate 20 hours of paid prenatal leave per year since Jan 1, 2025.
Other New York forms
Offer Letter by state
This page is general information for employers, not legal advice. Employment laws change and can vary by city and county. Confirm details with the state labor department or an employment attorney. Read our disclaimer.