New York State Driver Benefits

Drivers across New York State have access to a range of benefits and protections designed to support their independence while providing added security on and off the road. Availability, eligibility, and terms for these benefits may vary based on where and how you drive.

Minimum Earnings

For trips originating in New York State (outside of New York City), drivers are entitled to a minimum earnings guarantee of $28.41 per hour of active time.

Active time includes time spent driving to a rider’s pickup location and time spent with a rider in the vehicle. Time spent online waiting for trip requests is not included.

Earnings are calculated over a 14-day (bi-weekly) period. During this period:

• Total active time is multiplied by the minimum earnings rate to determine the guaranteed amount
• This amount is compared to your actual net earnings (excluding tips and certain additional payments)
• If your earnings fall below the guaranteed amount, you will receive an automatic “top-up” payment for the difference

The minimum earnings calculation includes trip fares and certain promotions, but does not include tips, tolls, cleaning fees, or referral bonuses.

Actual earnings may vary based on factors such as demand, trip characteristics, and when and where you choose to drive. Uber does not guarantee any specific hourly earnings for total time spent online.

Paid Sick & Safe Leave

New York State Drivers may accrue paid sick & safeleave based on their total active time. Drivers currently earn 1 hour of paid sick & safe leave for every 30 hours of active time, up to 56 hours per year. Accrual rates, caps, and eligibility requirements are determined by the program and may be updated periodically.

Use of paid sick & safe leave

Paid sick leave may be used for qualifying reasons, including:

• A driver’s own mental or physical illness, injury, or health condition
• Diagnosis, care, or preventive medical treatment
• Caring for certain family members
• Certain absences related to domestic violence or similar circumstances

Drivers are not required to provide detailed medical information when requesting paid sick & safe leave, subject to applicable program requirements. 

Payment

As of March 1, 2026, 1 hour of PSSL can be redeemed for $28.41 per hour. 

Unemployment insurance

Uber also pays into New York State’s unemployment insurance fund, so drivers may have access to unemployment benefits if they find themselves out of work. Unemployment insurance eligibility is determined by New York State.

Additional support and benefits

Drivers in New York State may also have access to additional protections and resources, including appealing deactivations and receiving payments for completing particular training modules. 

Black Car Fund Benefits

The New York Black Car Fund provides benefits to eligible for-hire drivers across New York State, including those who drive using the Uber platform. The Fund is supported through a small surcharge on passenger trips.

Through the Black Car Fund, eligible drivers may have access to benefits such as:

• Workers’ compensation
• Dental and vision care 
• Death benefits

These benefits are intended to provide financial protection and support during times of need, such as injury, illness, or family caregiving.

Eligibility, coverage, and benefit amounts are determined by the Black Car Fund in accordance with applicable laws and program rules. Drivers can learn more through the Driver app or by visiting the Black Car Fund website.

Questions About Driver Benefits? 

More information about specific benefits are available in the Benefits Hub in the Driver app.

If you have questions about eligibility or believe you may not have received applicable benefits, you can contact support in the Driver app by selecting “Help”, or visit help.uber.com