Having a baby can mean taking several months away from work, which can create a significant gap in household income. EI maternity benefits are designed to provide temporary financial support to eligible people who are pregnant or have recently given birth and need to stop working.
For 2026, eligible recipients can receive up to 15 weeks of EI maternity benefits at 55% of average insurable weekly earnings, up to a maximum of $729 per week. Maternity benefits can then be followed by EI parental benefits, which provide additional weeks of income support while caring for a newborn or newly adopted child.
This guide explains who qualifies, how much you can receive, when benefits can start, how the 15 weeks work, how maternity and parental benefits differ, and how to apply.
What Are EI Maternity Benefits?
EI maternity benefits are a type of Employment Insurance (EI) special benefit available to the person who is pregnant or has recently given birth.
The purpose is to partially replace employment income while the recipient is away from work because of pregnancy or childbirth. Unlike parental benefits, maternity benefits are specifically for the person who gives birth.
In 2026, the main EI maternity benefit rules are:
| Feature | 2026 EI maternity benefits |
|---|---|
| Maximum maternity benefit period | 15 weeks |
| Basic benefit rate | 55% of average insurable weekly earnings |
| Maximum weekly benefit | $729 |
| Earliest start | 12 weeks before due date |
| Latest start | Up to 17 weeks after due date or birth, whichever is later |
| Waiting period | Generally 1 week |
| Application | Online through Service Canada |
Maternity benefits are separate from parental benefits, although they can be received consecutively. You can apply for maternity and parental benefits at the same time.
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To qualify for EI maternity benefits as an employee, you generally need to satisfy the EI requirements for special benefits.
The main requirements are:
- You are pregnant or have recently given birth.
- You have accumulated at least 600 hours of insurable employment during the qualifying period.
- Your regular weekly earnings have decreased by more than 40% because you stopped working or significantly reduced your work due to pregnancy or childbirth.
- You meet the other conditions applicable to your EI claim.
The qualifying period is generally the shorter of the 52 weeks immediately before the start of your claim or the period since the beginning of your previous EI benefit period, if that previous period began within the last 52 weeks.
What Are Insurable Hours?
Insurable hours are hours worked in employment covered by the EI program. Your employer generally reports your insurable employment through your Record of Employment (ROE).
For maternity and parental benefits, the entrance requirement is generally 600 insurable hours. This is different from EI regular benefits, where the required number of hours can vary depending on the unemployment rate in your EI economic region.
For example, if you worked:
- 30 hours per week for 20 weeks = 600 hours
you may have enough insurable hours to meet the basic entrance requirement, assuming you satisfy the other eligibility conditions.
Read More: Canada EI Benefits Explained- Types, Eligibility, Payments & How to ApplyHow Much Are EI Maternity Benefits in 2026?
The standard EI maternity benefit rate is 55% of your average insurable weekly earnings, subject to the annual maximum.
For claims beginning on or after December 28, 2025, the maximum weekly EI benefit rate is $729. The 2026 maximum insurable earnings amount is $68,900.
EI Maternity Benefits Calculation
A simplified calculation is:
Average weekly insurable earnings × 55% = estimated weekly EI maternity benefit
For example, suppose your calculated average weekly insurable earnings are $900.
$900 × 55% = $495 per week
Your estimated maternity benefit would therefore be about $495 per week before applicable deductions.
If your calculated benefit exceeds the 2026 maximum, your weekly maternity benefit is capped at $729.
Example: Higher Income
Suppose your average weekly insurable earnings are $1,500.
$1,500 × 55% = $825
Because $825 is above the 2026 maximum, your EI maternity benefit would be capped at:
$729 per week
The maximum exists because EI benefits are calculated using insurable earnings only up to the annual maximum insurable earnings limit.
How Does EI Calculate Your Weekly Benefit?
EI does not simply take your current salary and multiply it by 55%.
The calculation generally uses your highest-earning weeks during the qualifying period, often called your best weeks. The number of weeks used depends on the unemployment rate in your EI economic region and generally ranges from 14 to 22 weeks.
For example, the calculation can be summarized as:
Total insurable earnings from the required best weeks ÷ required number of best weeks × 55% = weekly EI benefit rate
The number of best weeks can range as follows:
| Regional unemployment rate | Best weeks used |
|---|---|
| 6% or less | 22 |
| 6.1% to 7% | 21 |
| 7.1% to 8% | 20 |
| 8.1% to 9% | 19 |
| 9.1% to 10% | 18 |
| 10.1% to 11% | 17 |
| 11.1% to 12% | 16 |
| 12.1% to 13% | 15 |
| 13.1% or more | 14 |
Once Service Canada establishes your weekly benefit rate, that rate generally remains unchanged for the life of the claim.
How Many Weeks of EI Maternity Benefits Can You Get?
You can receive up to 15 weeks of EI maternity benefits.
Maternity benefits can begin as early as 12 weeks before your expected due date or the date you give birth. They cannot normally begin more than 17 weeks after the later of your due date or actual birth date.
The 15 weeks do not have to mean that you are receiving the same amount as your regular salary. EI is income replacement, not full wage replacement.
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Yes.
This is one of the most important distinctions to understand.
Maternity benefits are available to the person who gives birth and last up to 15 weeks.
Parental benefits are available to eligible parents caring for a newborn or newly adopted child and can be shared between parents.
For example:
15 weeks maternity + 35 weeks standard parental = up to 50 weeks for the person giving birth
If parental benefits are shared, the second parent may use some of the available parental weeks.
EI Maternity Benefits vs. Parental Benefits
Although they are often discussed together, maternity and parental benefits serve different purposes.
| Feature | Maternity Benefits | Standard Parental | Extended Parental |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who can receive | Person giving birth | Eligible parents | Eligible parents |
| Maximum individual weeks | 15 | 35 | 61 |
| Shareable between parents | No | Yes | Yes |
| Basic rate | 55% | 55% | 33% |
| 2026 maximum weekly rate | $729 | $729 | $437 |
| Claim period | Pregnancy/after birth | Within 52 weeks | Within 78 weeks |
Standard parental benefits provide up to 40 weeks that can be shared between parents, but one parent cannot receive more than 35 weeks.
Extended parental benefits provide up to 69 weeks that can be shared, but one parent cannot receive more than 61 weeks.
The additional shared weeks are intended to encourage both parents to take time away from work to care for the child.
Standard vs. Extended Parental Benefits
After maternity benefits, parents generally have to choose between standard parental benefits and extended parental benefits.
Standard Parental Benefits
Standard parental benefits pay 55% of average weekly insurable earnings, up to $729 per week in 2026.
One parent can receive up to 35 weeks, while parents together can receive up to 40 weeks when the benefits are shared.
The standard option must generally be used within 52 weeks after the week the child is born or placed for adoption.
Extended Parental Benefits
Extended parental benefits pay a lower weekly rate of 33%, with a 2026 maximum of $437 per week.
One parent can receive up to 61 weeks, while parents together can receive up to 69 weeks.
The extended option generally has to be used within 78 weeks after the week the child is born or placed for adoption.
Which Option Is Better?
There is no universal answer.
The standard option provides a higher weekly payment over a shorter period. The extended option provides income support for a longer period but at a lower weekly rate.
A family should consider:
- household expenses
- mortgage or rent
- childcare costs
- employer top-up
- the other parent’s income
- how long each parent plans to stay home
- whether the family needs higher monthly cash flow or a longer benefit period
Important: Once parental benefits have been paid, the choice between standard and extended parental benefits generally cannot be changed. If parents share benefits, they must use the same option.
When Can You Start EI Maternity Benefits?
You can start receiving maternity benefits as early as 12 weeks before your due date.
For example, if your expected due date is December 1, your maternity benefits could potentially begin around September 8, assuming you qualify and the other requirements are met.
You do not necessarily have to start maternity benefits 12 weeks before your due date. You may continue working longer and begin your benefits later.
The latest start date is generally governed by the rule that maternity benefits cannot be paid more than 17 weeks after the later of the expected date of birth or actual date of birth.
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EI generally has a one-week waiting period before benefits begin.
Think of this as an unpaid waiting week similar to an insurance deductible.
If you apply for maternity and parental benefits together, you generally serve the waiting period only once. When parents share parental benefits for the same child, only one parent generally needs to serve the waiting period.
Temporary EI measures can sometimes change waiting-period rules, so applicants should check the current Service Canada rules when submitting a claim.
How to Apply for EI Maternity Benefits
You can apply for EI maternity benefits online through the Government of Canada’s EI application system.
A practical application process looks like this:
1. Apply as soon as you stop working
Do not wait unnecessarily for every document to arrive before starting your application. Service Canada recommends applying as soon as possible.
You can apply for maternity benefits before the birth if you are within the permitted start period.
2. Provide your personal information
You will need information such as your Social Insurance Number and banking information if you want payments deposited directly into your account.
3. Provide employment information
You will need information about your recent employers, including employment dates and other details required for your application.
Your employer may submit your Record of Employment electronically to Service Canada.
4. Choose parental benefits if appropriate
If you already know that you will be receiving parental benefits after maternity benefits, you can apply for both at the same time.
This can reduce the need to submit another application later.
5. Review your application carefully
Make sure your dates, employment information and banking details are accurate.
Incorrect information can delay processing or result in an overpayment.
6. Wait for Service Canada’s decision
If you are eligible and have provided the required information, the Government of Canada says the first payment generally arrives about 28 days after applying.
What Documents Do You Need for EI Maternity Benefits?
The exact information required can depend on your circumstances, but applicants should be prepared with:
- Social Insurance Number
- residential and mailing information
- banking information for direct deposit
- employment history
- dates of employment
- expected due date or relevant birth information
- information about your employer
- Record of Employment, where applicable
Your employer is generally responsible for providing the ROE. An electronic ROE can be submitted directly to Service Canada.
It is still important to apply promptly even if you are waiting for an employer document.
Are EI Maternity Benefits Taxable?
Yes. EI payments are generally taxable income, and income tax can be deducted from your payments.
The amount you receive in your bank account may therefore be lower than the stated EI benefit rate.
For tax purposes, EI maternity and parental benefits are reported through the EI tax reporting system. The Canada Revenue Agency provides specific reporting instructions for these benefits.
For this reason, it is better to budget using the after-tax amount you actually receive, rather than assuming the full $729 maximum will arrive in your bank account.
Can Your Employer Top Up EI Maternity Benefits?
Some employers offer maternity or parental benefit top-ups.
A top-up can supplement EI payments and help replace more of your normal income during leave.
For certain employer plans, payments can be structured so that the combined EI benefit and employer supplement do not exceed the employee’s normal weekly earnings without reducing EI benefits. The plan must meet the applicable requirements.
Before starting maternity leave, check your:
- employee handbook
- collective agreement
- HR policy
- benefits package
- employer maternity or parental leave policy
A workplace top-up can make a substantial difference when comparing your expected household income during leave.
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Self-employed Canadians can also access EI special benefits, including maternity and parental benefits, but the rules are different from those for regular employees.
A self-employed person must generally:
- register for the EI special benefits program
- wait at least 12 months after registration before claiming
- pay EI premiums
- meet the required self-employment earnings threshold
- reduce the amount of time devoted to the business by more than 40%
- meet the specific requirements for the benefit being claimed
For 2026, the minimum self-employed earnings threshold is $9,254 for the applicable qualifying year.
If you are self-employed and considering EI maternity benefits, registration needs to be planned well before pregnancy leave. You generally cannot simply register when you need benefits and immediately claim them.
What If You Live in Quebec?
Quebec is an important exception.
The Quebec Parental Insurance Plan (QPIP) provides maternity, paternity, parental and adoption benefits to Quebec residents rather than using the federal EI maternity and parental benefit system for those benefits.
As a result, someone living and working in Quebec should check QPIP rules instead of assuming that the federal EI maternity benefit rules apply. Quebec also has its own premium structure for this reason.
This distinction is important when comparing maternity benefits across Canada because QPIP has different eligibility rules, benefit rates and benefit periods.
Example: Estimating EI Maternity Benefits
Suppose Sarah works outside Quebec and has enough insurable hours to qualify.
After Service Canada reviews her insurable earnings, her calculated average weekly insurable earnings are $1,000.
Her estimated maternity benefit is:
$1,000 × 55% = $550 per week
If she receives the maximum 15 weeks:
$550 × 15 = $8,250
So her gross maternity benefits would be approximately $8,250 before applicable tax deductions, assuming her weekly rate remains $550 for all 15 weeks.
This example does not include parental benefits, employer top-ups or other income.
Common Reasons an EI Maternity Claim May Not Work as Expected
Meeting one requirement does not automatically guarantee payment.
Potential issues include:
- having fewer than 600 qualifying insurable hours
- not experiencing the required interruption or reduction in earnings
- applying with incorrect employment information
- problems with the Record of Employment
- previous EI violations that increase the entrance requirement
- choosing an incorrect benefit option
- attempting to claim benefits outside the permitted period
- failing to report changes in circumstances
If your situation is unusual, it is better to confirm the rules with Service Canada rather than relying on a generic online estimate.
Read More: Canada Disability Benefit Calculator- Estimate Your Monthly PaymentExpert Tips for Planning Your EI Maternity Leave
Check your insurable hours early
Do not wait until your leave begins to discover that you are short of the 600-hour requirement.
Review your recent employment history and keep your pay records available.
Estimate your household income
Your EI maternity payment may be significantly lower than your normal salary. Add up:
EI maternity benefits + employer top-up + partner’s income + other eligible household income
This gives you a more realistic picture of your finances during leave.
Budget for taxes
EI benefits are not the same as tax-free government payments. Income tax can be deducted from your EI payments, so your net payment will generally be lower than the gross benefit.
Compare standard and extended parental benefits before applying
Do not choose based only on the number of weeks.
Compare the total amount, weekly cash flow and your family’s expected expenses.
Check your employer’s maternity policy
A workplace top-up can change the financial calculation considerably.
Apply promptly
Waiting too long can create unnecessary delays. Gather your information and submit your application as soon as you are eligible to start the benefit.
How much is EI maternity leave pay in Canada in 2026?
EI maternity benefits are generally 55% of average insurable weekly earnings, up to a maximum of $729 per week in 2026. The actual amount depends on your EI benefit calculation.
How many weeks of EI maternity benefits can I get?
You can receive up to 15 weeks of EI maternity benefits. These weeks can be followed by parental benefits if you qualify.
Can EI maternity benefits start before the baby is born?
Yes. Eligible recipients can start maternity benefits as early as 12 weeks before the expected due date.
Do I need 600 hours to get EI maternity benefits?
Generally, yes. Employees normally need at least 600 hours of insurable employment during the qualifying period to qualify for EI maternity benefits.
Can I get maternity and parental benefits together?
They are separate benefits, but they can be claimed consecutively. You can apply for maternity and parental benefits at the same time.
What is the maximum EI maternity benefit in 2026?
The maximum weekly EI benefit rate is $729 in 2026. This applies to maternity benefits as well as standard EI benefits that use the 55% rate.
Are EI maternity benefits taxable?
Yes. EI payments are generally taxable, and income tax may be deducted before the payment reaches you.
Can both parents receive EI parental benefits?
Yes. Parents can share parental benefits, subject to the maximum number of weeks and the rules for standard or extended benefits. Standard parental benefits can provide up to 40 shared weeks, while extended parental benefits can provide up to 69 shared weeks.
Can I change from standard to extended parental benefits later?
Generally, no. Once parental benefits have been paid, the choice between standard and extended parental benefits cannot normally be changed. Parents sharing benefits must also use the same option.
Final Takeaway
EI maternity benefits provide temporary income support to eligible Canadians who need to stop working because of pregnancy or childbirth. In 2026, the program provides up to 15 weeks at 55% of average insurable weekly earnings, with a maximum of $729 per week.
The most important requirements for employees are generally 600 hours of insurable employment, the required reduction in weekly earnings, and meeting the specific maternity benefit conditions.
Because maternity benefits can be followed by standard or extended parental benefits, planning the entire leave period is more useful than looking at the maternity payment alone. Before applying, check your insurable hours, employer top-up, expected household expenses and the parental benefit option that best fits your family’s financial needs.
For the most accurate decision, use the current Government of Canada EI information and application system because benefit rates, temporary measures and individual eligibility can change.