Extended Parental Leave Ontario Calculator

Use this calculator to determine your extended parental leave entitlement in Ontario. The Ontario government provides up to 26 weeks of parental leave with partial pay, plus additional weeks with full pay for eligible parents.

How Extended Parental Leave Works in Ontario

Extended parental leave in Ontario is a benefit provided by the government to eligible parents. It offers partial pay for up to 26 weeks, with additional weeks available for parents who meet specific criteria.

Key Features

Up to 26 weeks of partial pay (approximately 55% of regular earnings)
Additional weeks with full pay for eligible parents
Must be taken within 12 months of the child's birth or adoption
Available to both biological and adoptive parents

The leave can be taken in one continuous period or in separate blocks. Parents must maintain their employment during the leave period and continue to pay into the Employment Insurance (EI) program.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for extended parental leave in Ontario, you must meet several criteria:

Basic Requirements

Be a resident of Ontario
Have a child who is born or adopted within 12 months of the leave start date
Be employed and have contributed to the Employment Insurance (EI) program
Have worked at least 12 months in the 18 months before the leave start date

Parents who meet additional criteria may be eligible for additional weeks of full pay. These criteria include having a low income, being a single parent, or having a child with a disability.

Leave Duration and Pay

The standard extended parental leave in Ontario provides:

Leave Type	Duration	Pay Percentage
Standard Partial Pay	Up to 26 weeks	55% of regular earnings
Additional Full Pay	Up to 10 weeks	100% of regular earnings

The pay rate is based on your average weekly earnings from the 52 weeks before the leave start date. The maximum weekly benefit is $550 for partial pay and $700 for full pay.

How to Apply

To apply for extended parental leave, follow these steps:

Complete the application form available on the Ontario government website
Gather required documents including proof of employment and childbirth/adoption records
Submit your application to ServiceOntario
Wait for approval (processing typically takes 4-6 weeks)
Begin your leave once approved

Applications must be submitted within 12 months of the child's birth or adoption date.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I qualify for extended parental leave?: Use our calculator to check your eligibility based on your employment history and income. You must be an Ontario resident with a child born or adopted within 12 months of the leave start date.
Can I take the leave in separate blocks?: Yes, you can take the leave in one continuous period or in separate blocks. However, you must complete the full 26 weeks within 12 months of the child's birth or adoption.
What happens if I lose my job during the leave?: If you lose your job during the leave, you may still be eligible for partial pay if you continue to contribute to the Employment Insurance program.
Can I work part-time during the leave?: Yes, you can work part-time during the leave, but your earnings will affect your benefit amount. You must maintain your employment status to continue receiving benefits.
How do I apply for additional full pay weeks?: To qualify for additional full pay weeks, you must meet specific criteria such as having a low income or being a single parent. You'll need to provide additional documentation when applying.