Parental leave (ex optional maternity): how it works for mom and dad

Both dependent mom and dad can choose to take extra time to spend with their children in their first years of life. This period, called parental leave, is added to mandatory maternity leave, which lasts a total of 5 months: usually 2 months before delivery and 3 after, but it can also be taken flexibly (for example 1 month before and 4 after) if conditions permit. Every parent is entitled to a maximum of 6 months of leave (which can become 7 months of leave for fathers if at least 3 months of leave are taken within 6 years of the child), jointly (as a couple) not exceeding 10 months, or the 11 months if the Dad took 3 months of leave within the first 6 years of his son, daughter. During parental leave, the INPS normally pays an allowance equal to 30% of the salary. However, as an incentive to use this right in the first years of a child's life, within 6 years of age, it is possible to have a month (30 days) paid at 80% of the salary, instead of 30%. This month doesn't have to be taken all together: it can be divided into several periods or days, and the INPS adds up the days to a total of 30. Self-employed parents (professionals, freelancers, co.co.co.) are also entitled to leave, but for a maximum of 3 months each in the first year, with an allowance equal to 30% of income. Those enrolled in Separate Management can spend up to 9 months in total, with 3 individual months and 3 shared months. To apply, simply access the INPS portal with SPID and fill out the dedicated form. For employees, the application must be made before the start of the leave and the employer advances the allowance. The self-employed can apply through the same portal or through patronage.