New Paternity Benefits

Question

My partner and I are expecting a baby in September. Can I claim the new Paternity Benefit? Are there any other benefits I can claim?

Answer

Paternity Benefit is a new payment for employed and self-employed people who are on paternity leave from work and covered by social insurance (PRSI). The PRSI classes that count for Paternity Benefit are A, E, H (with the exception of serving members of the Defence Forces) and S (self-employed).

Paternity Benefit is paid for two weeks (in one block) and is available for any child born or adopted on or after 1 September 2016. You can start paternity leave at any time within the first 6 months following the birth or adoption placement. If you are already getting certain social welfare payments, then you may get half-rate Paternity Benefit.

You must notify your employer four weeks before you intend to go on paternity leave (12 weeks if you are self-employed). You must provide proof of the expected date of birth (this is a certificate from your spouse’s or partner’s doctor confirming when the baby is due) or confirmation of the birth if you are applying after the baby has been born. In the case of adoption, you must produce a certificate of placement.

Paternity Benefit is available from 1 September 2016. You can apply online at mywelfare.ie for Paternity Benefit from 5 September 2016 (your payment will be backdated if necessary). You must have a Public Services Card to apply for Paternity Benefit.

You can also claim up to 18 weeks of unpaid parental leave from work (until your child’s eighth birthday - or 16th if they have a disability).  Both parents have a separate entitlement to 18 weeks’ parental leave.

Further information is available from the Citizens Information Centre below.

Know Your Rights has been compiled by Boyle Citizens Information Centre which provides a free and confidential service to the public. Tel: 0761 07 6330

Address: Elphin Street, Boyle, Co. Roscommon

Information is also available online at citizensinformation.ie and from the Citizens Information Phone Service - 0761 07 4000