Understanding Maternity Pay in the UK: What Every Mum-to-Be Needs to Know
Preparing for a new baby is exciting!! Congratulations if that’s you.
Whether you're employed, self-employed, or recently stopped working, understanding your rights and options is key to planning a smoother, more secure maternity leave.
In this guide, we break down the essentials of UK maternity pay in 2025, including Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP), Maternity Allowance, and other benefits that could support you through this life-changing time.
What Is Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP)?
If you’re employed, Statutory Maternity Pay is the minimum your employer must pay you during maternity leave.
To qualify for SMP, you must:
Have worked for your employer for at least 26 weeks by the 15th week before your due date.
Earn at least £123 per week (before tax).
Provide the correct notice and proof of pregnancy.
How much is SMP? (for the 2024/25 tax year)
First 6 weeks: 90% of your average weekly earnings (before tax).
Next 33 weeks: £184.03 per week or 90% of your average earnings (whichever is lower).
Last 13 weeks: Unpaid (but you may be eligible for other support).
If your thinking wow, this is low, how will I survive off this you can see if your employer offers enhanced maternity pay.
Enhanced Maternity Pay
Some employers offer enhanced maternity pay—check your employment contract or speak to HR. Enhanced maternity pay, also known as contractual maternity pay, is maternity pay offered by employers that goes beyond the legally mandated statutory maternity pay (SMP).
Return-to-work requirements
Many employers may have contractual terms requiring you to return to work for a specified period after taking enhanced maternity leave.
Negotiation
You can potentially negotiate for enhanced maternity pay, especially if you have a strong case for how it will benefit the company or team.
Examples of enhanced maternity pay:
Full pay for the initial six weeks, followed by SMP for the remaining 33 weeks.
Full pay for 12 weeks, followed by SMP for the remaining 27 weeks.
14 weeks full pay and 12 weeks half pay.
If you are not yet pregnant but want to find out which companies have the best maternity packages take a look at www.mybumppay.com.
What If You Don’t Qualify for SMP?
Not all mums-to-be qualify for SMP—but don't worry there is another option. I’ve been personally been in this situation – when pregnant with my first daughter I found out I didn’t qualify for SMP or enhanced maternity pay as I became pregnant just before changing jobs… all hope is not lost! You might be eligible for Maternity Allowance, especially if you're self-employed, recently changed jobs, or had gaps in employment.
To qualify for Maternity Allowance:
You must have worked (employed or self-employed) for at least 26 weeks in the 66 weeks before your due date.
You must have earned at least £30 per week in 13 of those weeks.
What is maternity allowance?
Paid for up to 39 weeks
Tax-free
Amount depends on your National Insurance contributions
For 2024/25, you could receive between £27 to £184.03 per week
Additional Support You Might Be Entitled To
Beyond maternity pay, there are other helpful benefits for new and expectant mums in the UK:
Child Benefit – Paid to parents of children under 16 (or under 20 if in approved education).
Free NHS Prescriptions & Dental Care – Available during pregnancy and until your baby is 12 months old.
Universal Credit – Financial help for those on low income or out of work.
Sure Start Maternity Grant – A one-off payment of £500 (if you meet income criteria and this is your first child).
Explore the full list of benefits at GOV.UK or Money Helper.
Plan Ahead
Maternity leave should be a time of bonding, rest, and preparation—not financial stress. Knowing what support is available can make a world of difference. If you’re unsure about your situation, reach out to your HR department, contact Citizens Advice, or explore reliable resources like GOV.UK.
Knowledge is power—and peace of mind.
Pay is not the only thing to consider - review your employers policies on flexible working and support available once you return.
If this post helped you, share it with a fellow mum-to-be or leave a comment below.
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