Planning leave shouldn’t be a second full-time job.
Navigating the web of EI benefits, province-specific rules, and complex employer top-ups can feel impossible while preparing for a new baby. Between choosing between standard or extended benefits and meeting rigid application deadlines, it's easy to feel overwhelmed by the paperwork when you should be focusing on your growing family.
Real Stories from Real Parents
Story 1: Dad Starts Leave Too Late
What they did
They assumed Dad could start his leave whenever it felt right. He delayed his first week at home, not realizing there were rules about when benefits had to start. They lost weeks of paid time and had a bigger income gap than expected.
If they’d used the Planner
The tool would flag the key timing rules for his leave and EI benefits, show the impact of different start dates, and help them pick a start week that protected more paid time at home.
Story 2: Mom Makes a Lot More Than Dad
What they did
They split leave 50/50 because it felt “fair,” without checking how Mom’s higher income and EI rules would affect their total take-home pay. They ended up with a bigger drop in income than they needed to.
If they’d used the Planner
The tool would compare different ways to share leave, show how each option affects total family income, and help them design a plan that keeps more money coming in while still giving both parents time at home.
Story 3: Dad Confuses Leave and Benefits
What they did
Dad thought “time off from work” and “getting EI” were the same thing. He took unpaid days before his benefits actually started and missed some key steps in the application process. They had a gap with no pay at all.
If they’d used the Planner
The tool would clearly separate “time off” from “benefit payments,” walk them through when to apply, and map out which weeks are paid vs unpaid so they could avoid surprise gaps.
What the tool will help you figure out
Benefit Calculations
Determine exactly how much EI you might receive based on your specific income and employment history.
Standard vs. Extended Leave
Compare how choosing standard (12 months) versus extended (18 months) leave directly impacts your monthly and total household income.
Employer Top-Ups
Get clarity on how your company’s top-up policy integrates with government benefits to stabilize your cash flow.
Deadlines & Forms
A personalized roadmap of key application deadlines and the specific forms you need to keep your benefits on track.
Monthly Planning
Visualize your income and expenses month-by-month to ensure your savings and benefits cover exactly what your family needs.
Optimize Leave & Benefits for Both Parents
Coordinate parental leave, EI benefits, employer top-ups, and timing so your family can make the most of the support available.
Ready for peace of mind? Take the assessment or join the waitlist.
Choose Your Planning Level
Disclaimer: This tool provides educational information for planning purposes only and does not replace official government, employer, legal, financial, or tax advice. Always verify benefits with Service Canada.