The most useful information to know what you are entitled to as a new dad!
Dad soon? Let's start with some sound advice.
If your partner tells you she's certain they'll be triplets. Breathe, she's playing with your nerves.
If you're offered a video of childbirth, feign discomfort and walk out the back door.
If you have the latest maxi version LED screen, wrap it in bubble wrap; your little one will probably try to give Tchoupi a hug.
You don't know Tchoupi...? Ah, the happiness of carefreeness... Enjoy it while you can.
And finally, take a crash course in diaper replacement and electric breast pump handling. These are the two items that will occupy your hands for the next 6 months.
Editor's note: Thanks to magicmaman. In order not to shock the dads-to-be, the gorriest was kept away.
Are you already a dad? You are entitled to parental leave(parental leave) and parental leave. smirk)
And yes, the highest authorities recently decided to grant two weeks of paternity leave to new fathers. We must admit that the average of 2-3 days planned until then was ridiculous as the period after the birth is intense emotionally and physically.
Who is eligible?
As long as you are the legal father and have been subject to AHV for at least 9 months, you are entitled to it. This is true whether you are employed, self-employed or unemployed.
In concrete terms, this represents 2 weeks, or 10 working days, to be taken in one block or separately before the end of the 6th month after the birth of your little one.
What are the benefits?
You benefit from 80% of your average income up to a maximum of CHF 196 per day. You will contribute on this amount as it is considered income but these days are not taken from your vacation days.
2021-2022
The Federal Act on Compensation for Loss of Earnings was amended accordingly at the beginning of 2021. If you're going to become a dad in the next few days or weeks, you're concerned.
Since the beginning of this year, some insurers have been offering additional cover that not only extends your paternity leave to 4 weeks but also allows you to have compensation equivalent to 100% of your salary.
The rights are also applicable in the case of adoption and the coverage for parents who have to care for a seriously ill child has also been improved. That's the least we can do.
And what about employers?
What has just been explained is the legal framework. Nothing prevents an employer from going the extra mile to support new parents on the team.
Some do, many stick to the federal framework.
To take the example of Milenia, a company recently accredited as a Great Place to Work, it has decided to add 8 days to paternity leave... and consequently also maternity leave. This is at the company's expense.
In addition, the days before and/or after the birth can be taken according to the needs of the parent.
Needless to say, this is highly appreciated as free time is counted in the days before and after a birth.
Other companies are taking similar steps. Those that do not react will face a gradual disengagement of their employees as this is representative of the consideration of the needs of the employees. Those who make the effort will see an increase in the employer brand and will be able to attract talent more easily.
Is Switzerland a good student?
Don't exaggerate. Before 2021, Switzerland was at the bottom of the pack. In 2022, we climbed a few steps but we are still far behind many of our European neighbours. This is particularly noticeable when comparing parental leave data, i.e. the accumulation of paternity and maternity leave.
Unsurprisingly, the Nordics offer much more when it comes to support and flexibility. Switzerland is comparable to Belgium, Bulgaria, Poland... but far behind Spain or Portugal. Comparatively, Italy and Greece are among the worst-off countries.
A 'can do better' then. Societal progress sometimes takes time. However, in a modern society that prides itself on being focused on the importance of well-being and work-life balance, it is high time that we tackle this problem head-on to support moms and dads and ultimately provide optimal conditions for our newborns.
A loan?
Between car seats, clothes, diapers, bottles, strollers, blenders... A budget is required to equip yourself well. You won't have the time or energy to do it in the days and weeks after your child is born.
True to the principle of responsibility, a birth loan should only be taken out if it is genuinely useful, so wait to see what will be offered to you by your loved ones and make smart purchases.
If, however, you need a helping hand, a personal loan, consider Milenia. In just a few steps, you will be able to simulate the cost of your consumer loan and make your application. Simply and safely.
After all, you'll have other things to do when your toddler joins you home. The first few months are wonderful but oh so tiring. So make your life easier by opting for a financing solution that is simple in its approach, quick in its execution and has no prior financial constraints.
We'll be there by your side. You will experience intense and sometimes exhausting moments, but the happiness of welcoming your child into this world cannot be rivalled.
So, if you're reading this article because you'll soon be a mom (or dad), congratulations, take good care of yourself and enjoy every moment!