Updated for 2026
Maternity Leave Ontario: Complete Guide
Everything Ontario parents need to know about EI maternity leave, parental leave options, job protection under Ontario law, and how to plan your time off with baby.
This guide explains how federal EI benefits work and how Ontario employment rules protect your job.
Maternity Leave Quick Access Guide
In Ontario, maternity and parental benefits are paid through the federal EI program. Below is a side-by-side comparison of the 2026 benefit structure so you can see the differences clearly
EI Benefit Comparison (2026)
*Estimates based on projected 2026 maximum insurable earnings.
What’s New for Maternity Benefits in 2026?
Benefit rates are based on insurable earnings thresholds updated for 2026. If you’re giving birth after January 1st, you may be eligible for the higher weekly maximums.
How Maternity Leave Works in Ontario
Maternity Leave (EI)
• 15 weeks
• 55 percent of average insurable weekly earnings
• Paid through Employment Insurance
• Available only to the birthing parent
Maternity benefits can begin up to 12 weeks before your due date.
Parental Leave
12 Months (Standard)
• Up to 40 weeks shared
• One parent can receive a maximum of 35 weeks
• Paid at 55 percent of average weekly earnings
Most Ontario families use this option if planning about 12 months off work.
Parental Leave
18 Months (Extended)
• Up to 69 weeks shared
• One parent can receive a maximum of 61 weeks
• Paid at 33 percent of average weekly earnings
The total benefit is similar, but the weekly payment is lower because it is spread over a longer period.
How to Apply: 4 Simple Steps
1
Request your ROE
Ask your employer for your Record of Employment. Most employers submit this electronically to Service Canada.
2
Apply Online
Fill out the application on the Service Canada website. Do this as soon as you stop working, even if you don’t see your ROE yet.
3
Receive your Access Code
Service Canada will mail you a benefit statement with a 4-digit access code to manage your claim online.
4
Bi-weekly Reporting
Depending on your claim, you may need to complete reports every two weeks to confirm you are still eligible for benefits.
Ontario Rights & Job Protection
It’s important to understand that EI payments are federal, but job protection is provincial. In Ontario, the Employment Standards Act (ESA) guarantees you the right to return to the same or equivalent job after your leave.
Unpaid Leave of Absence
Your employer must allow your employment if you qualify for leave or notice.
Benefit Continuity
Your employer must continue to contribute to your benefit plans for pension, life insurance, or health.
Self-Employed?
Your status doesn’t have to be a barrier. If you’re your own boss and want to receive EI, you can sign up for the EI Special Benefits program for at least 12 months.
To qualify:
- Register for EI special benefits
- Wait 12 months before claiming
- Meet minimum income requirements
- Continue paying EI premiums
This requires advance planning.
Returning to Work After Maternity Leave in Ontario
The transition back to work is as big as the transition away. Start planning at least 3 months before your return date.
- Discuss Return Agreements
- Breastfeeding/Pumping Rights at Work
- Re-negotiating flexible hours
- Provide required notice to your employer
- Confirm childcare arrangements
- Review income changes once EI ends
- Confirm benefit reinstatement (if over 1 year)
Ontario parents often begin daycare planning during pregnancy because waitlists can be long.
Budget adjustments are common once EI payments stop.
Toronto Planning Tips for New Parents
Daycare Waitlists
In Toronto, apply before your baby is born. Some waitlists reach 18-24 months for newborn care.
Rent/Mortgage Safety
Factor in city-specific costs like rental insurance and higher utility rates when budgeting for leave.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Maternity Leave in Ontario
Plan your entire parenting journey with confidence.
Maternity leave is just the beginning. The 150-page Toronto Baby Guide walks you through EI and parental benefits, hospital and midwife comparisons, OHIP coverage details, daycare waitlist strategies, CWELCC fee planning, and step-by-step checklists from pregnancy through baby’s first year
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