Becoming a parent is an exciting and life-changing experience, but it can also come with financial and logistical challenges. In Ireland, Paternity leave provides fathers and partners with the opportunity to take time off work after the birth or adoption of a child, helping to ease those early days of parenthood. This guide covers everything you need to know about Paternity leave and Paternity benefits.
Here’s what we will cover:
- What is Paternity Leave?
- Who can take Paternity Leave?
- How to qualify for Paternity Benefit
- When can I take Paternity Leave?
- Postponing Paternity Leave
- How Irish Tax Rebates can help
- FAQs
What is Paternity Leave?
Paternity leave is a payment in Ireland that allows parents to take time off work following the birth or adoption of a child. Eligible employees are entitled to two weeks of Paternity leave, which can be taken at any time within the first six months after the child’s birth or adoption.
During this leave, you may qualify for Paternity benefits from the Department of Social Protection. The rate is €274 per week (as of 2024), with a €15 increase planned from January 2025 under Budget 2025.
Who can take Paternity Leave?
In Ireland, you can take Paternity leave if you are the child’s father, the mother’s partner (whether married, in a civil partnership, or living together), or the parent of a child born through a donor.
How to Qualify for Paternity Benefit
To qualify for Paternity benefit in Ireland, you must meet these four requirements.
- You must be employed or self-employed and on paternity leave during the two weeks.
- You must have paid enough PRSI (Pay-Related Social Insurance) contributions.
- If you are self-employed, you need to be in insurable employment and have paid 52 weeks of PRSI contributions under Class S in the relevant tax year. For example, if you are taking paternity leave in 2024, the relevant tax year would be 2022.
- If you are self-employed, you need to be in insurable employment and have paid 52 weeks of PRSI contributions under Class S in the relevant tax year. For example, if you are taking paternity leave in 2024, the relevant tax year would be 2022.
- You must notify your employer at least four weeks before you plan to take paternity leave.
- You must be the father, partner, or parent of a donor-conceived child.
Maximise your Paternity benefits!
Learn how much you may be eligible to claim back.
When can I take Paternity Leave?
You can take Paternity leave anytime within the first six months after the birth or adoption of your child. The two weeks can be taken all at once or split into two separate weeks. Make sure to notify your employer at least four weeks before you plan to take leave.
You will also need to provide proof of your spouse or partner’s expected due date. Your employer will then complete a form called PB2: Employer Certificate for Paternity Benefit to confirm your eligibility for paternity leave.
Postponing Paternity Leave
You can postpone your Paternity leave in certain situations. For example, if there are complications with the birth or adoption, you can delay your leave. If you want to change your leave dates, you will need to inform your employer as soon as possible and provide any required documentation.
How Irish Tax Rebates can help?
Taking Paternity leave can be a big adjustment, not only emotionally but financially. Our qualified experts can help ease the burden. If your income changes while you’re on Paternity leave, you may pay too much in taxes earlier in the year. By claiming back, the extra taxes you’ve paid on your Paternity benefits, you can get some money back, giving you more financial flexibility during your time off. Applying for a tax rebate is easy. Apply now.
FAQs
1. How is Paternity Leave payment made in Ireland?
Paternity benefits are paid directly by the Department of Social Protection. Payments are made into your bank account or through a post office.
2. Can I take Paternity Leave if I’m self-employed?
Yes, self-employed individuals in Ireland can also take Paternity leave, as long as you meet the necessary criteria.
3. Do I need to take all of my Paternity Leave at once?
No, you can choose to split your two weeks of Paternity leave into two separate weeks, but both must be taken within six months of the child’s birth or adoption.
