after having baby, change from JSB to illness benefit?

[dubinamerica]

Hi - I had a baby a few weeks ago : ) All well with baby after a number of days in special care. Myself on the other hand.. I don't feel where I should physically for where I'm at post delivery. I had a normal delivery but then had to undergo an op and was given the spinal tap, and had a drip for a couple of days. Still in pain with back and stitches and worried that I'll be sent some letters to go and interview for jobs. Someone mentioned to me that I may be able to apply for illness benefit til I feel better. Does anyone know what this entails? May I be covered? Haven't had 6 week check yet as too early, but going to go to my own GP this week anyhow and see if I can have bloods run in case of any infection. Any info would be really appreciated.

 

[Eblana]

Should you not be on maternity benefit???

 

[Emiso]

I think that you should be on maternity leave and you may be entitled to payment of maternity benefit . See the link below. Congratulations and hope you start to feel better soon

http://www.citizensinformation.ie/c...conditions/leave-and-holidays/maternity_leave

 

[gipimann]

Maternity Benefit is only paid to women in employment (or self-employment).

dubinamerica,
If your GP agrees that you're unfit for work, then ask him/her for a SW medical cert and apply for Illness Benefit. If you've got sufficient PRSI contributions to qualify for Jobseeker's Benefit, then you should be ok for Illness Benefit.

You can send the medical cert to the address on the form, or bring it to the SW office to let them know you're signing off until you're better.

Congrats on the baby!

 

[Berni]

If you've got sufficient PRSI contributions to qualify for Jobseeker's Benefit, then you should be ok for Illness Benefit.

Be careful here. The JB claim was made last year, when it was based on 2007 contributions. A claim for IB now would be made based on 2008 contributions.

As Jaybird said, you aren't expected to fulfill the seeking work condition at the moment. You have 8 weeks grace after the birth before they expect you to sign on or actively seek work.