How do I apply for parental leave benefits (QPIP)?

In Quebec, parental leave benefits are paid by the Québec Parental Insurance Plan (QPIP, in French the RQAP). Each parent must make their own application, online or by phone. Before applying, you must choose the plan (basic or special) and the start date of your benefits. You can submit your application no earlier than the Sunday of the week you want your payments to start. Also tell your employer when you plan to take your leave. This sheet covers pregnancy or birth.

Key facts

Where to apply

Online (QPIP file) or by phone with the customer service centre

When

No earlier than the Sunday of the week you want your benefits to start; up to six past weeks without justification

Decision time

Generally five business days once all required information is received

Maternity (person giving birth)

Basic plan: 18 weeks at 70% of income. Special plan: 15 weeks at 75%.

Parental benefits shared between parents

Basic plan: 32 weeks (first 7 at 70%, next 25 at 55%). Special plan: 25 weeks at 75%.

Period to take the weeks

Maternity: no earlier than 16 weeks before the expected week of delivery. Other benefits: no later than 78 weeks (18 months) after the birth, except in special cases.

Steps

1. Choose your plan: the basic plan (longer duration) or the special plan (shorter duration). The basic plan gives more weeks with lower benefits; the special plan gives fewer weeks with higher benefits.
2. If the other parent applies first, their plan choice also applies to you. Once your application is received, you can no longer change plans.
3. Choose when you want to receive your benefits. A benefit week runs from Sunday to Saturday. You do not have to choose all your weeks when you apply.
4. Tell your employer when you plan to take your leave.
5. Prepare your application in your online QPIP file. If you do not submit it right away, the information is kept for 120 days.
6. Submit your application online or by phone with the customer service centre. You can submit it no earlier than the Sunday of the week you want your payments to start.
7. Wait for the decision, then tell QPIP promptly of any change, such as your return-to-work date or income received during your benefits.

General information drawn from official sources. It does not replace legal, medical or financial advice. For your situation, contact the organization concerned or a professional.