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Maternity & Parental Leave Calculator

2025
Your Details
$
Your Leave Benefits

Combined Total Benefits

$30,250.00

Maternity (15 wks)

$8,250.00

$550.00/wk

Parental (40 wks)

$22,000.00

$550.00/wk

Total Weeks

55

+ 1 wk waiting

Benefits Breakdown
Detailed Calculation
Weekly insurable earnings$1,000.00
Maternity benefit rate55%
Maternity weekly benefit$550.00
Maternity duration15 weeks
Total maternity benefits$8,250.00
Parental benefit rate55%
Parental weekly benefit$550.00
Parental duration40 weeks
Total parental benefits$22,000.00
Combined total$30,250.00
Waiting period1 week (unpaid)
Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about maternity and parental leave

Maternity benefits are available only to the person who is pregnant or has recently given birth, for up to 15 weeks. Parental benefits can be shared between both parents and cover the time spent caring for a newborn or adopted child. You can choose between standard parental (40 weeks at 55%) or extended parental (69 weeks at 33%). Only one parent can receive a maximum of 35 weeks of standard parental or 61 weeks of extended parental benefits.
Standard parental benefits pay 55% of your weekly insurable earnings for up to 40 weeks (with one parent limited to 35 weeks). Extended parental benefits pay 33% of your earnings for up to 69 weeks (with one parent limited to 61 weeks). The total amount received is roughly the same either way, just spread over a longer period with extended benefits. Once you choose, you cannot switch between standard and extended.
Both parents can share parental benefits. For standard benefits, there are 40 weeks total but one parent can take a maximum of 35 weeks. The extra 5 weeks are a "use it or lose it" incentive for the second parent. For extended benefits, 69 weeks total with one parent taking a maximum of 61 weeks, and 8 weeks reserved for the second parent. Both parents must individually qualify for EI.
Quebec has its own parental insurance plan called QPIP (Quebec Parental Insurance Plan) which replaces EI maternity and parental benefits for Quebec residents. QPIP offers higher replacement rates (70-75% for basic plan) and more flexibility. QPIP also covers self-employed workers and has a lower qualifying threshold (at least $2,000 in insurable earnings). Quebec residents pay QPIP premiums instead of the parental portion of EI.
Many employers, particularly in the public sector, large corporations, and unionized workplaces, offer a "top-up" that supplements EI maternity/parental benefits to bring your total income closer to your regular salary (usually 75-93% of salary). Top-up policies vary by employer and are not required by law. Some employers require you to return to work for a specified period after leave, or you must repay the top-up.
Yes, under the Working While on Claim rules, you can earn money while on leave. You can keep 50 cents of your EI benefits for every dollar earned, up to 90% of your previous weekly earnings. Any earnings above 90% are deducted dollar for dollar. You must report all earnings. Some provinces also have job-protected leave legislation that may exceed EI benefit duration.
You should apply for EI maternity benefits as soon as you stop working, even if your employer has not issued your Record of Employment (ROE). Maternity benefits can start as early as 12 weeks before the expected due date. There is a one-week unpaid waiting period. Delaying your application could mean losing benefits, as EI cannot be backdated beyond 4 weeks from your application date.

CRA-Aligned: This calculator uses official Service Canada EI maternity and parental benefit rates for 2025. Quebec residents should use the QPIP calculator instead. Actual benefits depend on your specific employment and Record of Employment. Contact Service Canada for a definitive assessment.

More Information
Understanding Maternity and Parental Leave in Canada

How EI maternity and parental benefits work for new parents

How long is maternity leave in Canada?

Maternity benefits are available for up to 15 weeks to the birth mother. They can start as early as 12 weeks before the expected due date and must be taken within 17 weeks of the actual delivery. The benefit pays 55% of your average weekly earnings, up to a maximum of $695 per week in 2025.

How long is parental leave?

Parental benefits can be taken by either parent and come in two options. The standard option provides up to 40 weeks at 55% of earnings (maximum $695/week), with no more than 35 weeks for one parent. The extended option provides up to 69 weeks at 33% of earnings (maximum $417/week), with no more than 61 weeks for one parent.

How many hours do you need to qualify?

You need at least 600 insurable hours in the 52 weeks before your claim to qualify for maternity or parental EI benefits. This is about 16 weeks of full-time work. Both salaried and hourly workers accumulate insurable hours. Self-employed individuals can opt into EI special benefits, but must have been registered for at least 12 months before claiming.

Can both parents share the leave?

Yes. Parental benefits can be shared between both parents. Under the standard option, the total is 40 weeks but one parent can take a maximum of 35 weeks. There is also an additional 5-week sharing bonus (8 weeks under extended) if both parents share the leave. This "use it or lose it" provision encourages both parents to take time off.

Are maternity and parental benefits taxable?

Yes. EI maternity and parental benefits are taxable income. Federal and provincial taxes are withheld from each payment. Depending on your total income for the year, you may owe additional tax at filing time or receive a refund. If your net income exceeds $79,000, you may also face an EI clawback.

Does your employer top up EI benefits?

There is no legal requirement for employers to top up EI benefits, but many do. Top-up plans typically bring your total income to 75% to 95% of your regular salary during leave. Federal government employees receive 93% of salary for the first 15 weeks. Check your employment contract or collective agreement to see if your employer offers a top-up plan.

How does Quebec differ?

Quebec has its own Quebec Parental Insurance Plan (QPIP) instead of EI maternity and parental benefits. QPIP is generally more generous — it pays 70% to 75% of income for the first weeks and 55% for the remaining weeks. QPIP also covers self-employed workers automatically and requires fewer hours to qualify. Quebec residents pay QPIP premiums instead of EI parental premiums.

CRA-Aligned: Based on 2025 CRA rates and thresholds. For personal advice, speak to a qualified accountant or tax professional.

Disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates based on current CRA rates and thresholds for the 2025 tax year. It does not constitute professional tax, financial, or legal advice. Your actual liability may differ depending on your individual circumstances. Always consult a qualified accountant before making financial decisions. Read our terms

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