Shared Parental Leave Calculator UK 2026/27
Calculate how to share parental leave between parents, work out ShPP entitlement, and plan your family leave. Updated for 2026/27 rates.
Plus 2 weeks compulsory maternity leave
Weeks at full pay (check your employer policy)
Available Leave
50 weeks
After compulsory maternity
Paid Weeks
35 weeks
At ShPP rate
Mother/Birth Parent
Estimated Pay
£4,785
Father/Partner
Estimated Pay
£1,656
17 weeks will be unpaid leave
Mother/Birth Parent Must:
- Be entitled to maternity leave or pay
- Give notice to curtail maternity leave/pay
- Share childcare responsibility with partner
Partner Must:
- 26 weeks employment by 15th week before due date
- Still employed when taking SPL
- Earn at least £123/week (or have earned £30/week in 13 of 66 weeks)
Calculation Methodology
This calculator uses the 2026/27 ShPP rate of £184.03 per week. It calculates available leave after the 2-week compulsory maternity period and distributes the 37 weeks of paid leave between parents based on your selections.
Official Sources
Important: Results are estimates based on standard HMRC rules. Your actual tax may differ based on your specific tax code, benefits, or HMRC adjustments. Always verify with your employer or a qualified accountant.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Shared Parental Leave (SPL)?
Shared Parental Leave allows eligible parents to share up to 50 weeks of leave and 37 weeks of pay between them after a baby is born or adopted. The mother must end her maternity leave early (curtailment) to create SPL, which can then be taken by either parent in flexible blocks.
How much is Shared Parental Pay (ShPP) in 2026/27?
Statutory Shared Parental Pay (ShPP) is £184.03 per week or 90% of average weekly earnings, whichever is lower. This is the same rate as Statutory Maternity Pay after the first 6 weeks and is paid for up to 37 weeks in total (minus any maternity pay already taken).
Who is eligible for Shared Parental Leave?
To qualify for SPL, you must share responsibility for the child, have been employed continuously for 26 weeks by the 15th week before the due date, and remain employed while taking SPL. Your partner must have worked for 26 weeks in the 66 weeks before the due date and earned at least £30 per week in 13 of those weeks.
Can both parents take SPL at the same time?
Yes, both parents can take SPL at the same time, allowing you to be at home together. You can take leave in up to 3 separate blocks (with employer agreement) and can even take it in discontinuous periods.
How do I split leave between mother and father?
The mother must give notice to end maternity leave (curtailment notice). The remaining weeks (up to 50 weeks leave, 37 weeks pay) can then be shared between parents however you choose. You submit a notice of entitlement to your employers stating how you plan to take the leave.