Your Maternity Leave and Parental Leave checklist
It might seem a while away, but ahead of the arrival of the new addition to your family, it’s a good idea to begin preparations towards your leave and to find out what you are entitled to. Here’s a checklist to help.
Before your leave
- Tell your boss your big news. Find out if there’s anyone else you need to inform at work.
- If you will require specific Workplace Accommodation, make sure to discuss your needs with your Human Resources representative.
- Review your company’s Maternity and Parental Leave Policies to determine your entitlements during your time off; reach out to your Human Resources representative if you have any questions.
- Review the Government of Canada website to determine your eligibility for Employment Insurance benefits during your time off.
- Think about how long to take off before baby arrives. Contact your Human Resources representative, and complete any required forms, a minimum of 4 weeks before your intended leave.
- Ensure a proper handover with your Manager before your last day at work.
- Apply for Employment Insurance (if eligible) as soon as possible after you stop working.
- Now you’ve got that admin out of the way, you can reward yourself with a fun task—baby names?! See our checklist for ideas.
During your leave
- Notify your Human Resources representative immediately, if your child arrives earlier than the expected delivery date you originally indicated.
- Contact your Human Resources representative to include your child as a dependent on your benefits plan.
- Notify your Human Resources representative if your personal contact details change during your leave.
- Notify your Human Resources representative if you would like to make any changes to your leave dates.
- Contact your Manager and Human Resources representative at least four weeks before your scheduled leave ends to discuss your return to work plans.
- Research and finalize on childcare options ahead of your post-return to work.
After your leave
- While you prepare yourself to return to work, be gentle on yourself.
- If required, discuss an onboarding / return plan with your Manager.
- Keep the lines of communication with your Human Resources representative and Manager open, to discuss any changing needs you may have.
USEFUL LINK: Government of Canada: EI Maternity & Parental Benefits: https://www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/ei/ei-maternity-parental.html
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