If a pregnant woman works in conditions that may be harmful to her health or that of the baby she is carrying, can she receive special protection?
Yes. Some provinces have passed laws giving a pregnant woman the right to request to perform other tasks than those she usually performs if her health is in jeopardy. If necessary, she may even temporarily stop working and compensation under these laws. This type of leave is not considered a maternity leave.
The birth of a baby is a happy event. But, it does give rise to new expenses that the parents must be ready for. How much should we put aside to raise a child to the age of 5?
Children have many needs, and the expenses parents face to meet these needs vary according to many factors, such as the family's income, lifestyle, parental values, etc.
- Know your financial security options for life's major events: I'm a New Parent
- See how to create a financial strategy that fits your lifestyle, financial situation, and priorities: Young dependents.
I am employed and taking my maternity leave. What happens to my benefits?
Generally, the employee taking maternity leave continues to receive all of her benefits. In other words, even if she is not at work, her group insurance policy covers, for example, dental care costs, provided that this is covered in a policy offered by the employer. However, please note that employee contributions for the duration of the leave will be deducted retroactively from the employee's salary once she returns to work. In addition, since policies differ from one employer to another, see the Human Resources Department of your company for the specific conditions of your policy.
I am self-employed. Can I get maternity leave benefits?
As a general rule, self-employed workers do not receive employment insurance benefits, whether as maternal or paternal leave, unless they've also held, in addition to their own work, an insurable position through which they've made contributions to an employment insurance policy. This matter is administered by employment insurance officials based on six factors set out in the law. For information on whether you're eligible for such benefits, click on the link below to maternity and parental benefits.
I am self-employed. Can my spouse take a paternity leave?
Regardless of your self-employed status, your employed spouse may take a paternal leave of up to 35 weeks. However, he may be required to provide a proof of birth (or an adoption certificate) and a statement declaring that he will stay at home to take care of your child. Certain types of income will have an effect on parental benefits. For more information about this, click on the link below to maternity and parental benefits.