How to Plan Your Paternity Leave Before Your Baby Arrives
Last updated 12 November 2026 · Paternity Leave Calculator editorial team
A little planning in the months before the due date makes the first weeks with your baby far less stressful.
Three to six months before
Read your employer's parental leave policy and your country's rules. Note any notice deadlines — in the UK, for example, you must notify your employer at least 15 weeks before the due week.
Estimate your dates and pay with our calculators so you can budget.
One to three months before
Agree a handover plan with your manager and colleagues. Decide who covers urgent issues, and set an out-of-office message ready to switch on.
Keep your plan flexible
Only a small share of babies arrive on their due date. Ask your employer how to change your start date if the baby comes early or late, and how much notice is needed.
Think about the return
Consider whether a phased return, holiday days or flexible working could ease the transition back.
Work out your own dates
Use our free calculator to estimate your leave start, end and return date.
Open the calculatorThis guide summarises official sources for general information and is not legal advice. Rules change — confirm your entitlement with your employer or the relevant authority.