Single-parent families

Mothers raising a child on their own are eligible for an additional 54 working days of parental benefits. The extension is available only if no one is entitled to a paternity allowance in respect of the child. The extension also applies to women adopting a child by themselves.

Certain other Kela benefits are available to single-parent families at an increased rate. You can claim:

• single-parent supplement to child benefit, even if you have joint custody
• maintenance allowance, if you do not receive child support or the amount is too low
• general housing allowance, if you are on a low income.