You should apply for Maternity Benefit 6 weeks (12 weeks if self-employed) before you intend to start your maternity leave.
In certain cases, you may apply after your baby is born. But if you fail to apply within 6 months of the birth of your baby, you may lose benefit.
To apply, complete the application form MB 10 and send it to:
Maternity Benefit Section
Department of Social Protection
McCarter's Road
Ardarvan
Buncrana
Co. Donegal
LoCall: 1890 690 690 (from the Republic of Ireland only)
+ 353 1 47 15898 (from Northern Ireland or overseas)
Note
You will be issued with an initial letter acknowledging receipt of your claim. Our normal procedure is to process your claim at least two weeks in advance of when you are due to start your Maternity Leave. Separate notification will issue to you once your claim has been processed.