How to Make the Most Out of Your Maternity Leave Benefits

Maternity leave is a valuable time to rest, bond with your baby, and adjust to motherhood.

To make the most of it, you need to understand your benefits, plan your time well, and manage your finances.

Here are some practical tips to help you maximize your maternity leave benefits:

Understanding Maternity Leave Laws in the Philippines

Under the maternity law, specifically the Expanded Maternity Leave Law (Republic Act No. 11210), maternity leave is a government-mandated benefit that allows eligible working mothers to take paid time off for childbirth and recovery.

Who is Entitled to Maternity Leave?

Maternity leave benefits apply to women working in both the public and private sectors, as well as those who contribute to the Social Security System (SSS).

Private sector employees receive their SSS maternity benefits through their employer, while government employees claim maternity leave through their agency under the GSIS.

Duration and Coverage of Benefits

Mothers are entitled to 105-day paid maternity leave. Solo parents receive an extra 15 days, giving them a total of 120 days of maternity leave benefits.

However, under the maternity leave extended policy, mothers have the option to take an additional 30 days unpaid leave if they need more time for recovery and childcare.

Solo parents receive an extra 15 days, giving them a total of 120 days of maternity leave benefits.

In case the pregnancy is unsuccessful, mothers are entitled to 60 days of paid maternity leave for miscarriage.

Additionally, up to 7 days of maternity leave may be transferred through leave allocation to the child’s father or an alternate caregiver under the Paternity Leave Benefit, allowing new families more flexibility.

Legal Updates You Should Know About

Maternity leave entitlements in 2025 continue to evolve, providing better support for working mothers. Here are some key legal updates:

Expanded Maternity Leave Law (RA 11210) – Increased paid maternity leave from 60 to 105 days, with an extra 15 days for solo parents and an option to extend for 30 more days without pay.

Coverage for More Workers – Now includes self-employed women, freelance jobs, OFWs, and kasambahays, as long as they meet SSS contribution requirements.

Employer Compliance – Employers must provide full maternity benefits and cannot fire, demote, or reduce benefits for pregnant employees, ensuring job security.

Cash Benefits – Qualified employees receive SSS or GSIS maternity pay through payroll or a designated account, while self-employed, OFWs, and voluntary SSS members get payments directly from SSS via bank, e-wallet, or check.

Planning Ahead Before Taking Maternity Leave

Planning ahead helps ensure a smooth transition at work and financial stability while you’re away:

Financial Preparation and Budgeting Tips

Without proper planning, income loss and increased expenses during maternity leave can lead to financial stress. Preparing your finances in advance helps ensure stability while you’re away from work.

Here are some tips to manage your budget:

Estimate Your Maternity Benefits – Calculate how much you’ll receive from SSS or GSIS during your paid leave and factor in any unpaid leave.

Save in Advance – Set aside extra funds to cover expenses during your leave, especially if you plan to extend the paid period.

Adjust Your Budget – Prioritize essential expenses and reduce non-essential spending to maximize your funds.

Explore Additional Income Sources – Consider freelance work, side gigs, or passive income sources if needed.

Plan for Baby-Related Costs – Set aside a budget for medical checkups, baby essentials, and emergency expenses.

Planning your finances ahead ensures a more worry-free maternity leave, allowing you to focus on your baby and recovery rather than worrying about expenses.

Case Study: Sample Computation of Maternity Leave Benefits (SSS-Based)

To help you understand how maternity benefits work, here’s a real-world example based on a monthly salary of ₱30,000:

Case Study: April Joy is a private-sector employee who consistently earns ₱30,000 per month. She is expecting to give birth in July 2025.

1st Step : Determine the Semester of Contingency

The semester of contingency refers to the two consecutive quarters (or six months) leading up to the month of delivery, miscarriage, or emergency termination of pregnancy.

This period is excluded from the computation of maternity benefits.

You can watch this video for an in-depth explanation on the semester of contingency.

Since April’s expected delivery date is July 2025, her semester of contingency is from January 2025 to June 2025.

2nd Step : Identify the Average Monthly Salary Credit (AMSC)

The Average Monthly Salary Credit (AMSC) is the basis for computing SSS maternity benefits.

It is the average of your monthly salary credits (MSC) for the 12-month base period before the semester of contingency.

With a consistent salary of ₱30,000 per month, April’s AMSC is ₱30,000.

3rd Step: Compute the Total Maternity Benefit

Daily Maternity Allowance = AMSC × 100% ÷ 30

= ₱30,000 ÷ 30

= ₱1,000 per day

For 105 days of paid maternity leave:

₱1,000 × 105 = ₱105,000

Bonus for Solo Parents:

If April is a solo parent, she gets an extra 15 days:

₱1,000 × 15 = ₱15,000

Total Solo Parent Benefit = ₱120,000

This means April can expect a total SSS maternity benefit of ₱105,000, or ₱120,000 if she’s a solo parent — paid in full, tax-free.

Health Checklists and Organizing Paperwork

Staying organized with your check-ups and documents ensures a smooth maternity leave.

Here’s what to prepare:

Health Checklists:

Schedule prenatal check-ups and necessary tests.
Plan for hospital admission, including required documents.
Discuss your birth plan with your doctor.
Prepare for postnatal care and newborn checkups.

SSS Maternity Benefit Paperwork Requirements:

Claiming your SSS maternity benefits ensures sufficient finances during your leave. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the maternity benefit claim process:

1st Step: Notify Your Employer (Before Giving Birth)

Inform your employer about your pregnancy as early as possible.

Submit the SSS Maternity Notification Form (MAT-1) through your employer or via the My.SSS online portal (if you’re self-employed). Watch this video for guidance.

Provide a medical certificate or ultrasound report as proof of pregnancy.

Wait for your employer to submit your notification to SSS.

2nd Step: Prepare Required Documents (Before & After Birth)

Before birth: Keep a copy of your approved maternity leave application and MAT-1 form.

After birth: Gather these documents for the claim:
- Child’s Birth Certificate (PSA or local registrar)
- SSS Maternity Reimbursement Form (if applicable)
- Valid Government ID
- Employer’s Certification (stating no advance payment was made, if required)

3rd Step: Employer Files Your Claim (After Birth)

Your employer submits the claim to SSS on your behalf.

SSS processes and reimburses your employer through the employer maternity benefit reimbursement.

Your employer advances the benefit through payroll.

4th Step: Receive Your Maternity Benefit

Your employer credits the full benefit to your payroll account.

If you are self-employed, an OFW, or a voluntary member, SSS pays directly to your bank account, e-wallet, or via check.

5th Step: Extend Your Leave (If Needed)

If you plan to extend beyond 105 days, apply for an additional 30 days of unpaid leave with your employer.

For government employees, maternity benefits are the same, provided through paid leave and processed directly by your agency.

Talking to Your Employer: Coordinating Your Leave:

Clear communication with your employer is key to a smooth maternity leave. Here’s how to coordinate your leave:

Give Early Notice – Inform your employer about your pregnancy early, providing enough time for them to make arrangements for your leave and discuss your return.

Submit Required Documents – Complete and submit your SSS Maternity Notification Form (MAT-1) and any other required paperwork. Confirm how your maternity benefit claim will be processed.

Discuss Work Arrangements – Talk to your employer about who will cover your tasks during your leave and set expectations for your availability.

Finalize Your Maternity Leave Application – Confirm your leave dates and ensure all paperwork is completed to avoid delays.

Ensure Financial Readiness – Confirm the maternity benefit reimbursement process with your employer and understand how any unpaid leave will affect your finances.

Plan for Your Return – Plan for a smooth transition back to work, considering a flexible schedule if needed to ease your return after maternity leave.

Making the Most of Your Time Off

Maternity leave is more than just time away from work—it’s a crucial period for rest, recovery, and bonding with your baby

Here’s how to maximize this special time:

Prioritizing Bonding and Recovery

Make the most of your maternity leave benefits by focusing on your health and your baby’s development.

Rest and Recover – Prioritize sleep and allow your body to heal properly after childbirth. Accept help from family and friends when needed.

Bond with Your Baby – Spend quality time through close physical contact, breastfeeding, and engaging in soothing activities.

Establish a Routine – Create a flexible daily schedule that balances your baby’s needs and your own self-care.

Take Care of Your Mental Health – Adjusting to motherhood can be overwhelming. Don’t hesitate to seek support or talk to loved ones.

Stay Active – When ready, incorporate light activities like walking or stretching to help with postpartum recovery.

By focusing on recovery and bonding, you’ll make the most of your time off while preparing for a smooth transition back to work.

Balancing Rest with Light Mental Engagement

Prioritize rest while keeping your mind active:

Engage in Light Reading – Read books or articles on parenting, personal growth, or topics you enjoy.

Listen to Podcasts or Audiobooks – Stay entertained or learn something new without the need for additional screen time.

Try Gentle Hobbies – Enjoy activities like journaling, light crafting, or mindfulness exercises.

Stay Socially Connected – Chat with friends and family to maintain a sense of connection and support.

Finding a balance between rest and light engagement helps you recover while staying mentally refreshed and connected.

Self-Care and Mental Health Tips for New Moms

Taking care of yourself is essential for both you and your baby.

Here are some simple ways to prioritize your well-being:

Eat Nutritious Meals – Focus on balanced, nourishing food to support recovery and energy levels.

Practice Mindfulness – Try meditation, deep breathing, or light stretching to manage stress.

Set Realistic Expectations – Give yourself grace as you adjust to motherhood and focus on progress, not perfection.

Ask for Help – Don’t hesitate to delegate tasks or accept support from family and friends.

Prioritizing self-care helps you feel more balanced, refreshed, and ready to care for your baby.

Exploring Flexible Work Opportunities While on Leave

While on maternity leave, you can explore gig economy opportunities, like consulting gigs, self-employed opportunities, and freelance marketplaces.

These options offer flexible work, allowing you to earn income while caring for your baby. You can adjust your schedule to fit your needs and enjoy the time with your newborn.

You might even find a path you enjoy and consider transitioning to freelance or self-employed work full-time after your leave.

Light Work-from-Home Jobs You Can Explore

Finding time for work while caring for a newborn isn’t easy.

However, if you’re looking for flexible ways to earn, here are some light work-from-home jobs you can explore during maternity leave (or even after):

Freelance Writing & Editing – Write articles, blogs, or proofread content for businesses.

Virtual Assistance – Manage emails, scheduling, or social media for clients.

Online Tutoring – Teach subjects you’re skilled at through online tutoring platforms.

Customer Support (Chat-Based) – Assist customers via email or chat without handling calls.

These gig economy opportunities provide flexibility so you can earn while caring for your baby, and they could even turn into a full-time career -if and when you’re ready.

Preparing for Return to Work After Maternity Leave

Going back to work after maternity leave can be challenging, but planning ahead makes it easier:

Phased Return Strategies and Employer Support

Some employers offer flexible return-to-work options, allowing you to negotiate a phased return and communicate your needs for a smoother transition:

Gradual Return to Work – Start with reduced hours or part-time work before resuming full-time duties.

Remote or Hybrid Work – If possible, discuss remote work arrangements to balance work and childcare.

Flexible Scheduling – Adjust your work hours to better fit your baby’s routine and personal needs.

Employer-Supported Childcare – Check if your company offers childcare assistance, lactation rooms, or family-friendly policies.

By negotiating a phased return and communicating your needs, you can make the transition smoother while maintaining a work-life balance.

Choosing the Right Childcare Setup

Sometimes, you need to find the best childcare option to ensure your child’s well-being while you’re at work.

Consider your needs and preferences, as well as your baby’s routine, to arrive at the right setup.

Some options to consider include:

Workplace Maternity Support – Some companies offer on-site childcare or lactation rooms that can help ease the transition back to work with your newborn.

Help From Family or Close Friends – Have a trusted family member or friend care for your baby at home, especially in the early months.

Hiring an In-Home Nanny or Babysitter – A caregiver who comes to your home to care for your newborn, providing one-on-one attention (and flexibility for your schedule).

Co-Parenting Childcare – If you and your partner or a friend are sharing childcare responsibilities, you can alternate days or hours to provide care for the baby.

Maintaining a Healthy Work-Life Balance Post-Leave

This can be challenging, but with the right strategies, it’s possible to juggle work and family life effectively.

You can check out this guide on how to transition back to work after maternity leave for practical tips on managing both your professional and personal life.

Building a Long-Term Career Strategy as a Working Mom

Balancing work and family as a mom can be tough, but having a clear career strategy can help you manage both:

Upskilling During Your Leave (Free Courses and Certifications)

Your maternity leave is a great opportunity to focus on personal and professional growth. Upskilling can help you stay competitive in your career and also make your return to work smoother.

Many platforms offer free courses and certifications that you can complete at your own pace.

You can check out these 11 reliable websites for learning new skills.

Creating an Emergency Fund for Future Family Needs

Building an emergency fund is crucial for securing your family’s financial future, especially as you transition back to work after maternity leave.

Having savings set aside can help you handle unexpected expenses, giving you peace of mind as you adjust to your new routine.

You can also look at these 4 simple tips to build an emergency fund.

Considering Career Shifts to More Flexible Fields

Your maternity leave can provide you with time to reflect on your career goals and explore new opportunities that offer more flexibility.

If you’re looking for better work-life balance or more time with your family, switching to a career with flexible hours or remote work options, such as freelancing, consulting, or jobs in industries that prioritize flexible schedules, might be the right choice.

FAQ

Here are common questions about maximizing your maternity leave, returning to work, and maintaining a work-life balance.

Can I combine my maternity leave with vacation or sick leave credits?

Yes, you can use your vacation or sick leave credits after your maternity leave, depending on your employer’s policies. It’s best to check with HR for approval and specific guidelines.

What if I miscarry or deliver a stillborn child—am I still entitled to maternity benefits?

Yes, SSS provides maternity leave benefits for miscarriage or stillbirth, granting 60 days of leave.

You must submit the required medical documents, such as a medical certificate or hospital records, to support your claim.

Will I still receive SSS maternity benefits if I am unemployed or a voluntary member?

Yes, you can still receive SSS maternity benefits and keep your maternity rights if you’ve paid at least three monthly contributions in the 12 months before your delivery, miscarriage, or stillbirth, even if you are unemployed or a voluntary member.

Conclusion

To make the most of your maternity leave, it’s important to understand your benefits, plan your finances, and communicate with your employer.

Additionally, exploring remote work options, like those offered by Remote Staff, can provide the flexibility you need to balance both your career and family life seamlessly.

With proper planning, maternity leave can be a time to rest, bond with your baby, and set yourself up for a smooth return to work.

Ready to create a healthier work-life balance for you and your family?

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