Self employed & pregnant - am I entitled to any maternity?

[Jolie]

Hi,

I am a sole trader and self employed, earning approx. 30k per year before tax. I am self employed about 2 years. I have just found out that I am pregnant. Am I entitled to any maternity benefits? I will need to get cover for when I am off also. Thank you.

 

[Monbretia]

What were you doing before self employment? The eligibility is bases on the relevant contribution year which is 2013 at the moment, had you contributions that year?

Some info here http://www.citizensinformation.ie/e..._families_and_children/maternity_benefit.html

Max payment is 230ish, getting cover for when you are off I'm afraid will be your own problem, no help from SW there.

 

[gipimann]

Eligibility can also be based on Class S PRSI contributions paid in 2014 for self-employed women. The information is in Monbretia's link above.

 

[Jolie]

Thank you so much.