Pennsylvania does not have state mandated maternity leave pay - except perhaps for those who live near the border, or those who plan ahead and act at the right time. PA residents who cross the state border to work in New Jersey or New York have coverage, while the rest must plan ahead and purchase short term disability before getting pregnant.
Pennsylvania has long borders with both NJ and NY states. Both states have mandated short term disability insurance coverage that pays benefits for pregnancy and maternity leave. The key to these programs is that they cover people who work in the state, rather than those who live in the state. Pennsylvania residents who commute to either state are automatically enrolled in the programs - but there are limits.
The New Jersey plan replaces up to 2/3 of your income, capping out at $561 in 2010. So if you live in PA and commute to NJ you are covered! Too bad the Delaware River runs between the two states, limiting commuters to those near only a handful of bridges.
While the entire eastern and northern PA border meets NY and there are few natural commuting barriers, Pennsylvania residents who commute to New York don't get much of a benefit. The New York disability plan replaces up to 50% of income, but caps out at only $170 per week. This is more than 2/3 less than the New Jersey benefit. While better than no benefit at all, it still leaves many with a huge hole to fill during maternity leave.
Pennsylvania residents looking to increase their maternity leave income can purchase short term disability insurance before getting pregnant. When coverage begins prior to conception, short term disability covers your maternity leave. Your benefit for normal delivery may greatly exceed the premium you pay. Plus, you are covered in case of complications, accidents, and illnesses that cause you to miss work.
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