New changes to social welfare payment will see more money and more time off for new parents

A new change-up to social welfare allowances will see parents and new families earn more money for more time off.

Parent's Leave, which allows working parents to take up to seven weeks paid leave before their child turns is set to be extended to nine weeks.

Those eligible will also receive a Parent's Benefit payment of €274 per week taken.

Both the Parent's Leave and Parent's Benefit schemes are subject to change this summer, coming into effect in August.

Those eligible must be on Parent's Leave to qualify for Parent's Benefit , but it is possible to get Parent's Leave and not qualify for Parent's benefit, depending on your PRSI contributions.

Anyone who has just had a baby is eligible for Parent's Leave up until the child turns two.

If you intend to take Parent's Leave, you must notify your employer no later than six weeks before the intended leave date. You can then apply for Parent's Benefit at least four weeks before the intended leave date using MyWelfare.ie. 

Those who are self-employed, you need to apply for Parent's Benefit no later than 6 weeks before the intended leave date.

You need you child's PPS number in order to apply.

If you have received Maternity Benefit, Paternity Benefit or Adoptive Benefit, you will automatically meet the PRSI contribution requirements for Parent's Benefit.

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