TLDR: The breastfeeding allowance is a financial aid that can reach up to €375, depending on the provider. It is offered by some health insurance providers based on eligibility criteria. Check with your provider to benefit from it!
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Returning to work while breastfeeding is a significant concern for many new mothers. Among the available resources, the breastfeeding allowance remains a lesser-known solution. In this article, we explain who is eligible, the conditions for receiving it, and the steps to take to claim it.
What is the Breastfeeding Allowance?
The breastfeeding allowance is a financial aid designed to encourage new mothers to continue breastfeeding, even after returning to work. It helps cover certain breastfeeding-related expenses, such as purchasing a breast pump, setting up a breastfeeding area, or traveling to breastfeed.
- Recipients can receive a reimbursement of €125 for every two months of breastfeeding, for a maximum of six months. This means you can claim up to €375 in total.
- If you have multiple births, you will receive the allowance for each breastfed child.
Note: In France, the Caisse d’allocations familiales (CAF) does not provide a breastfeeding allowance. However, some health insurance providers include this type of financial support for breastfeeding mothers.
Who Can Benefit from the Breastfeeding Allowance?
This aid is not universal, and eligibility criteria vary depending on the country or region. In France, it may be granted under specific circumstances:
- Employees: Some collective agreements provide assistance to facilitate breastfeeding at work.
- Self-employed individuals: Certain health insurance plans offer similar benefits.
- Low-income families: While not specifically a breastfeeding allowance, other forms of aid may be available through the CAF or social organizations.
If you’re unsure about your eligibility, inquire directly with your employer or health insurance provider.
How to Claim the Breastfeeding Allowance
- Identify the relevant provider: Start by researching your employer’s policies or contacting your health insurance provider.
- Gather the necessary documents: These may include:
- A medical certificate confirming breastfeeding.
- Receipts for equipment (e.g., breast pumps).
- A statement from your employer.
- Complete the breastfeeding allowance form: Have it signed by your general practitioner, pediatrician, gynecologist, or midwife and send it to your health insurance provider. This certificate must confirm that your child was breastfed for more than two, four, or six months.
- Ensure your contributions are up to date: You must be in good standing with complementary benefit contributions.
Good to know: Some breastfeeding allowances can be combined with other parenting-related aids.
For Further Information
Did you know that your company is legally required to set up a breastfeeding area at work if it employs more than 100 female employees? We’ve dedicated an article to this topic. Discover it here.
Feel free to share this article with friends or colleagues who might benefit from this aid, and explore other resources we provide to support new mothers here.
