What maternity and parental benefits are available to me?

Your employer may offer maternity benefits. Check to see what is available. In addition, the federal government’s Employment Insurance (EI) provides maternity and parental benefits to individuals who are pregnant, have recently given birth, are adopting a child, or are caring for a newborn. You can apply for Employment Insurance on-line.

What are some of the financial issues I should consider?

Now that you are expecting a baby you should assess your financial situation so that you are ready for the realities for raising a child. Your employment situation will change, at least temporarily, and you may have the additional costs of daycare if you are planning to return to work in the future.