Becoming a new mum comes with plenty of excitement, but it can also bring financial worries, especially if you’re not entitled to Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP) from your employer.
That’s where Maternity Allowance from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) steps in, providing up to £184.03 per week for 39 weeks—totaling £7,117.17.
This support is designed to help mums take time off work after having a baby without worrying about their finances.
Eligibility
You might qualify for Maternity Allowance if you are:
- Employed but not receiving Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP)
- Self-employed
- Recently stopped working
This benefit is meant to bridge the gap for those who do not meet the requirements for SMP, ensuring they still receive financial support while caring for their newborn.
Payment Amount
If you qualify, you could receive:
- Up to £184.03 per week
- For a maximum of 39 weeks
If you take the full 52 weeks of maternity leave, keep in mind that the last 13 weeks will be unpaid since Maternity Allowance only covers 39 weeks.
When Can You Start Receiving Maternity Allowance?
You can claim Maternity Allowance once you have been pregnant for at least 26 weeks. Payments can start anytime:
- From 11 weeks before your due date
- Up until the day after your baby is born
This flexibility allows you to plan your maternity leave in a way that best suits your needs.
Qualification Criteria
To qualify, you must meet one of the following criteria in the 66 weeks before your due date:
If You Were Employed:
- Worked for at least 26 weeks
- Earned at least £30 per week for at least 13 weeks (these weeks do not have to be consecutive)
If You Were Self-Employed:
- Registered as self-employed for at least 26 weeks
Even if you had multiple jobs or gaps in employment, you may still qualify.
What If You Lose the Baby?
In heartbreaking circumstances, Maternity Allowance may still be available if:
- Your baby was born alive at any stage of pregnancy
- Your baby was stillborn after 24 weeks of pregnancy
This ensures that financial support is available for mums who experience loss.
Will Maternity Allowance Affect Other Benefits?
Yes, Maternity Allowance may impact certain benefits, including:
- Carer Support Payment
- Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Income Support
- Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA) (this will stop if you receive Maternity Allowance)
- Housing Benefit
- Council Tax Reduction
- Carer’s Allowance
- Bereavement Benefits
- Universal Credit
However, official guidance states that in most cases, your payments will either remain the same or increase when receiving Maternity Allowance.
How to Apply
Applying for Maternity Allowance is straightforward. Here’s what you need to do:
- Fill out the MA1 form, available on GOV.UK.
- Provide proof of income (e.g., payslips or self-employment records).
- Submit proof of the baby’s due date or birth (e.g., a medical certificate from a doctor or midwife).
Once submitted, the DWP will assess your application and confirm whether you qualify.
Maternity Allowance is a lifeline for many new mums, offering essential financial support when Statutory Maternity Pay isn’t available.
With up to £184.03 per week for 39 weeks, this benefit ensures you can focus on your newborn without financial stress. If you meet the criteria, apply as early as possible to secure your payments.
