How to Decide Between Parental Leave Options (In Canada)

Are you new parents in Canada, trying to navigate the complexities of maternity leave? Wondering whether to opt for a 12-month or 18-month parental leave? Look no further! The Mama Bestie blog is here to guide you through the decision-making process. In this comprehensive post, we'll break down the benefits, eligibility criteria, and financial considerations specific to parental leave in Canada. By exploring the differences between these two options, you can make an informed choice that suits your family's needs. Get ready to maximize your parental leave and make the most of this precious time with your little one. Read on to discover expert advice from The Mama Bestie!

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In Canada, there are so many amazing benefits for families! From the Canada Child Benefit, to free health care, to the generous parental leave options, we are very blessed! (Much love to our friends south of the border…) If you’re Canadian, make sure you use the benefits available to you! I am no expert but this was my experience as a new parent navigating the EI system for parental leave. 

One of the big decisions for new parents is how to choose between the 12 month and 18 month parental leave options. 

Personally, I went back and forth a lot of times. I had no idea what I’d feel about motherhood and whether I’d want the extra time or not. I knew I’d know when I was in it, but how was I supposed to choose 12 or 18 months when I went on maternity leave two weeks before I had my baby? 

The Basics 

One thing to keep in mind when it comes to the government parental leave of 12 months or 18 months – it’s the same amount paid out. If you choose the 12 month option, it’s 55% of your income paid over 12 months. If you choose the 18 month option, it’s 33% of your income paid out over 18 months. 

Another thing to note: If you go back to work early, you lose benefits immediately. If your partner is also sharing part of the benefits, they will be paid based on the leave option the birthing parent chooses initially. There is no way that I know of to change your selection after you fill in the application form. 

What if I don’t know?

A lesser-known option is to tell your work you’re taking the 18 month leave and select the 12 month option on your parental leave EI claim. If you can, save the difference in the payments so you can use it in the 6 months after your official EI payments end. That way, if you decide to go back to work after 12 months, you get the full payment that was allowed to you. But if you want that extra time, you’ve saved enough to take it and your work is not surprised by an extension. 

“If you’re on the fence or like to keep your options open, then consider the 12 month option for payments and save the difference so you can decide after your baby is born and you’re well into your new life.”

This is the option I chose and I had no regrets. Life itself can change in the first 12 months of your baby’s life. Your priorities shift and you may make big decisions you wouldn’t have planned for at the beginning of your maternity leave.

This is of course a very personal choice and if you know you want the full 18 months and won’t be able to save it if it’s in your account, choose the 18 month option! You know yourself best. But if you’re on the fence, this could be a great option for you! 

When should I start maternity leave? 

Another question I had when I was pregnant: how was I supposed to choose when to START maternity leave? In Canada, your government maternity leave benefits must begin the day you have your baby even if you have existing work leave to use up. I wanted to use up my annual leave from work then start maternity leave. 

I remember asking my midwife, my doctor, my friends and no one had an answer for me. I get it, no one can make this choice for you, but this is how I decided: Originally, I planned to start my maternity leave a couple of days before my due date but I moved it to 4 weeks before my due date to make absolutely sure that I’d be able to use my annual leave up before starting maternity leave. Starting 4 weeks early also meant I had some time to relax before the baby came.

I figured worst case, he’s late and I have more time to chill… Not a bad worst case scenario.

Turned out, H was 2 weeks early! So had I gone with my original plan, I would have started my leave the day before I went into labour.  

“Hot Tip: if you have short term disability benefits with your work and are struggling with pregnancy (it’s hard, girl! We get it!), you can talk to your doctor or midwife and go on short term disability instead of using part of your maternity leave time prior to having your baby. ”

All in, they’re very personal decisions that only you can make. But for me, reading about other people’s experiences was so helpful in making those decisions myself. Trust your instincts. I couldn’t shake the feeling that I should move the start of my leave to earlier and I’m so glad I did! It meant I had two weeks to relax instead of going into labour on day 1 of leave. And even if your baby isn’t early, you have more time to chill… Not a bad worst case… Especially because it’ll be a while until you can chill again! 

If you KNOW you want the 18 month maternity leave, go for it! If you’re on the fence or like to keep your options open, then consider the 12 month option for payments and save the difference so you can choose when you’re further along this parenting journey. 

You’ve got this!

Ash x

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Disclaimer: this is not legal advice and should not be taken as such. It is my story and experience in August 2021. Please contact Service Canada directly for questions relating to parental leave in Canada and your unique situation. 

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