The scoop
Paid parental leave gives you payments for up to 26 weeks while you're off work caring for a new baby, or a child under 6 who has come into your care. It's based on your usual pay, up to a maximum.
The maximum payment before tax is $811.05 a week from 1 July 2026 to 30 June 2027. Twins or more don't change the amount.
How to claim it
- 1
Check you meet the work requirements with IRD's eligibility tool.
- 2
Apply through myIR, even before you meet the work record if you will by your due date.
- 3
Payments stop if you go back to work or stop being the primary carer before 26 weeks.
Who qualifies
- Primary carer of the child
- Worked an average of 10+ hours a week for any 26 of the last 52 weeks
- Employees and self-employed people can both qualify