Paternity Benefits in Ireland: Eligibility, Pay & Rebates

Paternity leave and paternity benefits are designed to provide fathers and partners with the chance to spend time with their newborn while also receiving financial support.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about paternity leave in Ireland — who qualifies, how to apply, and how to make the most of your entitlements.

1. What is Paternity Leave?

Paternity leave in Ireland gives parents the right to take time off work after the birth or adoption of a child. Eligible employees are entitled to two weeks’ leave, which must be taken within the first six months.

During this period, you may qualify for a paternity benefit from the Department of Social Protection. The current rate is €274 per week (2024), with an increase of €15 scheduled for January 2025 under Budget 2025.

2. Who Can Take Paternity Leave?

Paternity leave isn’t limited to biological fathers. You can apply if you are:

• The child’s father
• The mother’s spouse or partner (married, civil partnership, or cohabiting)
• The parent of a child born through donor conception
  

This inclusive approach ensures more families can benefit from the support.

3. How to Qualify for Paternity Benefit?

To receive paternity benefits, you must meet certain requirements.

• Be employed or self-employed and on paternity leave during the two weeks.
• Have paid sufficient PRSI (Pay-Related Social Insurance) contributions.
• If self-employed, have paid 52 weeks of PRSI contributions under Class S in the relevant tax year (for example, if you take leave in 2024, the relevant year is 2022).
• Notify your employer at least four weeks before you intend to take leave.
  Be the father, partner, or parent of a donor-conceived child
  .

4. When Can I Take Paternity Leave?

Paternity leave can be taken:

• At any time in the first six months after birth or adoption.
• Either as two consecutive weeks or split into two separate one-week blocks
  

You must give your employer at least four weeks’ notice and provide proof of your partner’s expected due date. Employers will complete the PB2 Employer Certificate to confirm eligibility.

5. Postponing Paternity Leave

Life doesn’t always go to plan. If there are complications with the birth or adoption, or if your child needs hospitalisation, you may postpone your leave.
Simply notify your employer as soon as possible, explain your circumstances, and provide any supporting documents required. This flexibility ensures you can use your leave when it matters most.

FAQs

1. Can I take paternity leave if I am self-employed?

Yes, provided you meet PRSI contribution requirements under Class S.

2. Can my partner and I take leave at the same time?

Yes, maternity and paternity leave can overlap.

3. Is paternity benefit taxed?

Yes, but you may be able to reclaim overpaid taxes through a rebate.

How Refund Your Tax Can Help?

While paternity leave offers vital family time, it can also affect your income. Many employees unintentionally overpay taxes during this period.

At Refund Your Tax, our specialists help families in Dublin and across Ireland reclaim any overpaid taxes linked to paternity benefits. This can put extra money back into your pocket when you need it most.

Applying for a rebate is simple — and the sooner you apply, the quicker you can ease financial pressure.

Get back your tax refund with the help of our qualified Chartered Accountants.

You are just one step away from claiming your income tax refunds as well as any additional Why wait? Get your tax refund now. Contact Ireland’s Best Tax experts to get help for any related queries.