This page provides essential information regarding key state-specific labor laws, employee rights, and compliance requirements. Our goal is to ensure you have easy access to the necessary documents and information to understand your rights and obligations while working remotely in Rhode Island.
Please explore the sections below for details on tax withholdings, leave policies, workplace posters, and other important legal considerations specific to Rhode Island.
Tax Withholdings
As a fully remote employee, you are responsible for ensuring the correct amount of federal and state income tax is withheld from your paycheck.
- Federal Income Tax: Complete Form W-4 (IRS) Employee's Withholding Allowance Certificate to figure the correct amount of federal income tax to have withheld from your paycheck.
- State Income Tax: As a fully remote employee working in Rhode Island, you are required to complete Rhode Island W-4, Withholding Percentage Election. This form allows you to select your desired state income tax withholding percentage. If you do not submit this form, your witholdings will be withheld at the default rate.
Please submit both completed forms to the Payroll Office via the secure Payroll Office FileSender.
Leave Policies
Understand your rights regarding Rhode Island’s Sick and Safe Leave.
Workplace Rights & Posters
Access important labor law posters and information relevant to employees in Rhode Island. These posters provide a summary of various employment laws and worker protections.
Workers Compensation
Worker's Compensation coverage extends to remote employees who suffer a work-related injury or illness while performing their job duties. For an injury to be covered, it must arise out of and in the course of employment. Workers' compensation claims must be reported to the Risk Management Office at 610-758-3899 within one business day of the accident.
How to Claim Unemployment Insurance Benefits
If you become unemployed through no fault of your own and meet eligibility requirements, you may be able to claim Unemployment Insurance Benefits through the Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training website.
Important Note: This information is a summary and is subject to change. For complete details and the most current regulations, please refer to the official Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training website and consult with Lehigh University's HR and Payroll departments for specific guidance.