What is the maximum weekly EI benefit for 2026?

For 2026, the maximum weekly EI benefit for maternity and standard parental leave is $729 per week. For extended parental leave, the maximum is $437 per week.

What is the maximum insurable earnings for 2026?

The maximum insurable earnings (MIE) for 2026 is $68,900. This is the income level at which you contribute the maximum amount to EI and also the cap used to calculate your weekly benefits.

Maternity & Parental Leave Estimator [2026]

Plan your EI payments and family budget

Data: Service Canada EI Rates (2026)

Location & Plan

Province

Plan Type

Annual Income

Parent 1 (Birth)

Include Partner?

Parent 2 (Non-Birth)

Strategy & Allocation

Maternity Leave

Exclusive to Parent 1

15 Wks

Shared PoolStandard Pool

Parent 1 (Birth)

Parental Weeks

Parent 2 (Non-Birth)

Parental Weeks

Total Shared Weeks35 / 40

Estimated Total Benefit

$35,967 Total

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Standard vs. Extended Parental Leave

In Canada (outside Quebec), you can choose between a Standard (12-month) plan at 55% income replacement or an Extended (18-month) plan at 33%.

This calculator helps you visualize the trade-off between monthly cash flow and time off, including the "use it or lose it" bonus weeks available when parents share leave.