For almost 25 years, parents have had the option of taking parental leave: they can temporarily work less to spend more time with their newborn child. Until recently, this leave was unpaid. But since August 2, 2022 you are entitled to nine weeks of paid leave. This allows you to focus even better on your family and new child, without any financial worries. Below we have listed the most important information about parental leave.
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When are you entitled to parental leave?
Both parents are entitled to a maximum of 26 weeks of parental leave during the first eight years of their child's life. This also applies to adopted and foster children. You are entitled to parental leave for each child, but you can take leave for several children at the same time. And do you have twins? Then you are entitled to two times parental leave.
Is parental leave paid?
Of your 26 weeks of parental leave, you will receive 9 weeks of parental benefit from the UWV. The amount: 70 percent of your daily wage, with a maximum of 70 percent of your maximum daily wage. On the website of the UWV explains exactly how to calculate the amount of your benefit. In addition, additional agreements about paid leave may be made in your collective labor agreement. In that case you will receive the benefit from your employer or trade association.
When are you eligible for paid parental leave?
You must take the 9 paid leave weeks in your child's first year of life. The only conditions: you must take the weeks before your child's first birthday and have at least 9 of your 26 weeks of parental leave left.
How do you request the leave?
You must request parental leave from your employer in writing at least two months in advance. He cannot refuse this request. Your employer then arranges with the UWV that you receive the benefit. You also decide for yourself how you take the leave: do you take several weeks off in a row or do you work half days? You can determine this yourself by indicating it in your request. However, the employer may ask you to schedule the leave differently if it has compelling interests in doing so.
Want to know more?
Do you have questions about parental leave or this article? Or would you like to discuss the best way to take parental leave or to present it to your boss? Feel free to contact us. Our Service Center is available every working day from 8.30 am to 17.00 pm via sc@unie.nl en (0345) 851 963.
