It's the payment most parents forget, because it isn't tied to the birth itself. You need your employer to approve parent's leave first, and your child's PPS number to apply.
Quick facts
- Weekly rate
- €299 (2026)
- How long
- Up to 9 weeks per parent
- When
- Within 2 years of birth or adoption
- Tell employer
- 6 weeks before
- Apply
- At least 4 weeks before
- Tax
- Taxable, no USC or PRSI
How it works
"Each parent can get parent's leave and Parent's Benefit." "You can take your leave in separate weeks or all at once." Twins still count once: "Parent's Benefit is only paid once for both single and multiple births."
The 9 weeks apply to children born or adopted from 1 August 2024. Parent's leave and parent's benefit are separate from the longer, unpaid parental leave.
PRSI rules
PRSI at class A, B, C, D, E, H or S counts, so public servants on B, C and D can claim too. The usual test is "39 weeks PRSI paid in the 12-month period before the first day of your Parent's Benefit". Self-employed people need 52 Class S contributions in the relevant tax year, the year before or the year after.
Three deadlines
- Tell your employer no later than 6 weeks before the leave
- Apply for the benefit at least 4 weeks before (6 if self-employed)
- "You must apply for Parent's Benefit within 6 months of taking your Parent's leave."
Getting more than €299
If you have a partner or children, your rate is compared with the Illness Benefit you would get, including increases for them, and you get whichever is higher. It is worked out for you: you don't apply separately.
How to apply
Apply on MyWelfare.ie with a verified MyGovID, your baby's PPS number and your employer's registration number. You declare that your employer approved the dates; you don't upload proof.
"If your child dies within the first year of birth or adoption, you are still entitled to take your parent's leave and Parent's Benefit."
Common questions
How many weeks of Parent's Benefit do I get?
Up to 9 weeks for each parent, for children born or adopted from 1 August 2024, in the first 2 years.
How much is Parent's Benefit in 2026?
€299 a week, or more if you have a partner or children and the Illness Benefit comparison gives a higher rate.
Can I take Parent's Benefit one week at a time?
Yes. You can take your leave in separate weeks or all at once.
Do both parents get Parent's Benefit?
Yes. Each parent can get parent's leave and Parent's Benefit, if each has enough PRSI.
Is there a deadline for Parent's Benefit?
Apply at least 4 weeks before the leave, and no later than 6 months after taking it.