How long and how much?

How much time can you take off when the baby comes? And what will you be paid? Here's what you need to know...

How long can you take off?

The basics
If you've been with your employer since before the baby was conceived, you're entitled to up to two weeks off work at £112.75 a week.

If you qualify, you can choose to have one or two weeks' paternity leave. You choose when you take the leave but it must begin:

• on the day the baby is born
• a number of days or weeks after the birth
• from a specific date after the first day of the week the baby is due

You can take your paternity leave from the birth date if the baby is born early.

Your leave must finish within 56 days of the birth

Employees with more than one year's service can take (unpaid) parental leave as well as paternity leave to have more time off.

How much will I get?

Unless your employer is more generous, you will receive Statutory Paternity Pay (SPP).

This is a maximum of £117.18 a week in tax year 2008/09, but if you are on a low wage it might be 90 per cent of your average earnings.

If you are on a very low wage and earn less than the National Insurance lower earnings limit (£90 in 2008/09) you will not be paid SPP, but can still take the leave.

You may be able to claim Income Support if you have no income because you are taking paternity leave without pay.

Some employers offer better terms than these so you should check your contract and speak to your employer.

• Who's eligible and how do I get it?
• What if I'm self employed?

Author

Catherine Rogan has worked for Working Families' advice service for four years. She runs the e-dads service where dads can receive advice on working rights by e-mail or text message on 07800 00 4722. She lives in Surrey with her partner and one son.

Your experiences?

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