Maternity Benefits Education Explorer
Learn about German maternity and parental leave benefits system
Educational overview only. Benefits change annually. Consult official sources for current information and professional advice.
Mutterschutz (Maternity Protection)
Legal protection and salary continuation during pregnancy and after birth
14 weeks total
Key Benefits:
- 6 weeks before due date
- 8 weeks after birth (12 weeks for complications)
Elterngeld (Parental Allowance)
Financial support for parents during the first year after birth
12-14 months total
Key Benefits:
- 65% of net income (minimum €300, maximum €1,800)
- 12-14 months total between parents
Elternzeit (Parental Leave)
Job protection and right to return to work after parental leave
Up to 3 years
Key Benefits:
- Up to 3 years job protection
- Can be split between parents
Timeline Builder (Educational)
Explore different timeline scenarios to understand how benefits work