Skip to content
€299 a week
AssistanceProgram

Maternity Benefit

by Department of Social Protection

26 weeks of Maternity Benefit, at a standard rate of €299 a week in 2026, for employed and self-employed mothers.

Get this perk(opens the official offer in a new tab)

We're not affiliated with Department of Social Protection. Offers change, so confirm the details on the official site.

The scoop

Maternity Benefit is paid for 26 weeks to women on maternity leave who have enough PRSI contributions. The standard rate in 2026 is €299 a week.

At least 2 weeks (and up to 16 weeks) of leave must be taken before the end of the week your baby is due.

How to claim it

  1. 1

    Check your PRSI contributions qualify.

  2. 2

    Apply through MyWelfare before your maternity leave starts (Citizens Information lists the deadlines).

  3. 3

    Include the medical certificate confirming your due date.

Who qualifies

  • Employed or self-employed with enough PRSI contributions
  • Paid for 26 weeks

Keep exploring

Parents who liked this also claimed

Free
Social Security ScotlandUp to £796.65

Best Start Grant: Pregnancy and Baby Payment

Scotland's one-off payment for a new baby: £796.65 for a first child and £398.35 for later children.

Available in: United KingdomExpecting · Newborn · Baby

Program
U.S. Department of Health & Human ServicesFree child care & support

Early Head Start

Free early learning, home visits and family support for pregnant women and children under 3 in low-income families.

Available in: United StatesExpecting · Newborn · Baby · Toddler

Program
Employment and Social Development CanadaUp to $729 a week

EI Maternity & Parental Benefits

Up to 15 weeks of maternity benefits plus parental benefits that parents can share, at 55% of earnings.

Available in: CanadaExpecting · Newborn · Baby