EI maternity and parental benefits: A quick guide for Canadian parents

Starting a family is one of life’s most exciting journeys. However, it can also be a time filled with a laundry list of practical challenges. Particularly when it comes to finances and taking leave from work. For many Canadian parents navigating this transition, the Employment Insurance (EI) maternity and parental benefits program is a vital support system.?

EI maternity and parental benefits help to maintain some financial stability when temporarily off work and are an investment into the well-being of parents and children. They allow families to focus on bonding during the critical early months of a child’s life.??

However, navigating the application process and understanding your entitlements can feel overwhelming—especially during such a busy and emotional time. To help, here’s everything you need to know to make the process smoother and stress-free.?

Lightning Fact:?

Did you know that in 2023, 92% of eligible parents—primarily mothers—claimed maternity or parental benefits? This high uptake highlights just how essential these benefits are for Canadian families.?

What you need to know?

The EI maternity and parental benefit program provides temporary income support to eligible individuals who take time off work to care for their newborn or newly adopted child. The program is divided into two types of benefits: ?

1. Maternity benefits: Available to the person who is pregnant or has recently given birth, including surrogate mothers, for up to 15 weeks.??
2. Paternal benefits: Available to all parents (birth or adoptive) for up to 40 weeks. This can be shared between partners.?

Are you eligible??

To qualify for the benefit, you must:?

• Have worked at least 600 insurable hours in the past year (or since your last claim).?

• Have your regular weekly earnings reduced by more than 40%.?

• Be paying into EI through your job.?

Quick tip:?

Check out the newly launched EI Benefits Estimator. By answering a few questions, this tool can help you determine which type of EI benefit is best suited for you based on your current or future circumstance.?

How much can you get??

The standard benefit rate is 55% of your insurable weekly earnings, up to a maximum of $668 per week (2024 rate). Parents can also opt for extended parental benefits, which pay you 33% of your earnings over a longer period. The extended parental benefit can be used up to a maximum of 69 weeks and has a weekly maximum of $401 per week.?

Lightning Fact:?

Partners are stepping up! Nearly half (49.3%) of spouses or partners claimed parental benefits in 2023. It’s been a gradual upward trend from 29% in 2017. That’s according to the Employment Insurance Coverage Survey (2023).?

What to consider?

• Flexible options for families: Parents can decide how to split the parental leave, tailoring it to their unique needs and circumstance. For example, one parent can decide to take the full leave, or both can share it.??
• Self-employed Canadians: If you’re self-employed, you can opt into the EI program by registering and contributing at least 12 months before applying.?
• The application process: Applications can be submitted online through the Government of Canada’s website. Be sure to apply as soon as you stop working to avoid any delays.?

Tips for maximizing your benefits??

• Plan: Compare standard parental leave and extended parental leave to determine which option is best for your family.?
• Communicate with your employer: Ensure your workplace is aware of your expected leave. This is important to also discuss any additional workplace benefits.?
• Gather your documents: You’ll need your Record of Employment (ROE), Social Insurance Number (SIN) and other banking info. Be prepared to submit any other necessary details for your application.?

Quick Tip:?

You can visit your My Service Canada Account (MSCA) to view ROEs issued by your past and recent employers.?

Continue the conversation??

As more families embrace flexible work arrangements, EI maternity and parental benefits continue to play a vital role in supporting working parents. Have you or someone you know used these benefits? Share your experience in the comments—we’d love to hear from you!?

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