Special Weekly Allowance

The Special Maternity Benefit provides targeted financial support for women on maternity leave who do not have a regular entitlement to maternity benefits but would be eligible for this benefit if parental leave were not taken. A subsidy is granted in the amount of the increased sickness benefit, the assessment basis of which is the last earned income before the entitlement to remuneration arose and is adjusted if applicable. In principle, the Special Maternity Benefit covers the period from eight weeks before to eight weeks after childbirth. In the case of a cesarean section, premature birth, or multiple births, the benefit period is extended up to twelve weeks after delivery. For maternity leave periods starting from September 1, 2022, retroactive applications can be submitted until June 30, 2025.

Individuals residing anywhere in Austria are eligible for funding, provided that they would be entitled to maternity benefits without parental leave. The program aims to ensure income security during maternity leave and contributes to financial relief with a funding rate of 100%. Interested persons can submit applications until June 30, 2025. Approval is granted by the Federal Ministry of Labour, Social Affairs, Health, Care and Consumer Protection (Section II). This is intended to further strengthen the social security of women on maternity leave and promote equal participation in working life.