Parental Leave Pay Calculator (2025/26)
Updated for the 2025/26 Tax Year (£188.60/week). Calculate your Statutory Maternity/Paternity Pay and uncover the "Income Cliff" that many new parents face.
Your Income Details
£
Total Weeks Taken: 39 Weeks
(Standard Maternity is 39 weeks paid, up to 52 weeks leave)Starting a family is expensive. Ensure your reduced income is protected against unexpected shocks like illness or injury.
View Family Protection PlansBased on Gov.uk 2025/26 Statutory rates (£188.60/wk). Employers may offer enhanced packages.
Maternity and paternity pay calculator guide
WeCovr's parental leave pay calculator helps UK parents estimate statutory pay and income shortfalls, supported by FCA-authorised guidance and 900,000+ policies issued across protection products. It is designed to highlight the 'income cliff' during leave.
What this parental leave pay calculator estimates
The calculator estimates statutory maternity or paternity pay based on 2025/26 rates and your earnings. It shows total pay over the leave period and the shortfall versus normal income.
Results are indicative. Employer policies may offer enhanced pay.
Uses the statutory weekly cap.
Separates the first 6 weeks of maternity pay.
Highlights total income shortfall.
Why the shortfall matters
Even short leave periods can reduce household income significantly. Planning helps manage bills, childcare, and savings.
Why WeCovr supports family planning
WeCovr provides FCA-authorised guidance with high customer satisfaction ratings. We also offer complimentary access to the CalorieHero AI calorie tracking app and discounts when customers take PMI or Life insurance.
Data sources and guidance references
This guide references GOV.UK statutory maternity and paternity pay guidance for 2025/26.
Leave pay overview
| Leave type | Statutory pay | Shortfall risk | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maternity | Longer duration | High | Primary carers |
| Paternity | Shorter duration | Moderate | Partners |
| Enhanced employer pay | Varies | Lower | Employer-supported leave |
Related WeCovr resources
FAQs
Is statutory pay the same for everyone?
No. Statutory pay depends on your earnings and eligibility, and is capped at a weekly rate.
Does this calculator include employer enhancements?
No. It uses statutory rates only. Check your employer policy for enhancements.
How long is statutory maternity pay paid for?
Statutory maternity pay can be paid for up to 39 weeks if you are eligible.
Can income protection cover planned leave?
Income protection generally covers illness or injury, not planned leave.