Canada EI maternity and parental benefits: 2026 amounts
EI maternity and standard parental benefits use a higher weekly rate than extended parental benefits, with different limits on weeks available.
On this page
- Maternity
- Up to 15 weeks; 55% of average insurable weekly earnings; maximum $729 weekly in 2026.ESDC, maternity and parental benefit amounts
- Standard parental
- Up to 40 shared weeks, no more than 35 for one parent; 55%; maximum $729 weekly.ESDC, maternity and parental overview
- Extended parental
- Up to 69 shared weeks, no more than 61 for one parent; 33%; maximum $437 weekly.ESDC, maternity and parental overview
Weekly rates and limits
In 2026, maternity and standard parental benefits use 55% of average insurable weekly earnings, up to $729 a week. Extended parental benefits use 33%, up to $437 a week. The exact payment is determined once the application is processed. ESDC, maternity and parental benefit amounts (opens in a new tab).
Individual and shared weeks
Maternity benefits provide up to 15 weeks for the person who is pregnant or has recently given birth and cannot be shared. Standard parental benefits provide up to 40 weeks shared between parents, with no more than 35 weeks for one parent. Extended parental benefits provide up to 69 shared weeks, with no more than 61 for one parent. ESDC, maternity and parental overview (opens in a new tab).
Standard parental benefits must be taken within 52 weeks of birth or placement for adoption; extended benefits within 78 weeks. Parents sharing benefits must select the same option. Once a parental payment is made to either parent, the standard or extended option cannot be changed. ESDC, parental benefit options (opens in a new tab).
Earnings and Quebec coverage
The calculation uses the highest-paid weeks of employment, with the number of weeks depending on the regional unemployment rate. Quebec provides maternity, paternity, parental and adoption benefits to its residents through its own plan. ESDC, earnings and Quebec coverage (opens in a new tab).
Scope of this explanation
This is general information about Canada, not personal tax or financial advice. This page does not assess qualifying hours, calculate a family supplement or include employer top-ups. The government does not endorse this website.