The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is offering up to £184 per week through the Maternity Allowance scheme, providing essential financial support for parents during maternity leave. This payment is especially beneficial for those who are self-employed, recently unemployed, or ineligible for Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP).
With the ongoing Cost of Living crisis, this additional income can help parents manage expenses while taking time off to care for their newborn. Here’s everything you need to know about eligibility, payments, and how to apply.
What Is Maternity Allowance?
The Maternity Allowance is a government benefit designed to provide financial support to individuals who cannot receive Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP) from their employer. It is available for up to 39 weeks and is paid at a rate of £184.03 per week or 90% of your average weekly earnings, whichever is lower.
Who Can Claim Maternity Allowance?
You may be eligible for Maternity Allowance if you:
Are employed but not eligible for SMP
Are self-employed and have paid Class 2 National Insurance contributions
Have recently stopped working but were previously employed
Do unpaid work for your spouse or civil partner’s business
Eligibility Criteria for Full Maternity Allowance
To receive Maternity Allowance for the full 39 weeks, you must meet the following criteria:
- Work Requirement: You must have been employed or self-employed for at least 26 weeks out of the 66 weeks before your baby’s due date.
- Earnings Requirement: You must have earned at least £30 per week for at least 13 weeks during this period. These weeks do not need to be consecutive.
- Application Timing: You can apply once you have been pregnant for 26 weeks. Payments can begin from 11 weeks before your due date up until the day after your baby is born.
Even if you have had multiple jobs or experienced gaps in employment, you may still qualify for the payment.
How Much Can You Receive?
The amount you receive depends on your employment status and income:
- Employed or recently stopped working: Up to £184.03 per week or 90% of your average weekly earnings, whichever is lower.
- Self-employed: The full £184.03 per week, provided you have paid enough National Insurance contributions.
- Working in your spouse or civil partner’s business (unpaid): A lower rate of £32.12 per week may be available.
Maternity Allowance is paid every two or four weeks directly into your bank account.
How to Apply for Maternity Allowance
Applying for Maternity Allowance is straightforward:
Get the MA1 claim form – Available on the GOV.UK website or from your local Jobcentre Plus.
Complete the form – Provide details of your employment history, earnings, and baby’s due date.
Submit supporting documents – You’ll need:
- A MATB1 certificate (issued by your midwife or doctor after 20 weeks of pregnancy)
- Proof of earnings (payslips, tax returns, or business accounts if self-employed)
Send your application – Mail it to the address provided on the claim form.
Wait for a decision – Processing times vary, but payments usually begin within 24 working days after approval.
How Maternity Allowance Affects Other Benefits
Receiving Maternity Allowance may impact other benefits, including:
- Universal Credit – Maternity Allowance is considered income, which may reduce your Universal Credit payments.
- Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA) – You cannot receive JSA if you claim Maternity Allowance.
- Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), Income Support, Carer’s Allowance – Payments may be adjusted based on your Maternity Allowance.
- Housing Benefit & Council Tax Reduction – These may be affected, depending on your total household income.
If you are receiving any of these benefits, it’s best to check with DWP or Citizens Advice to understand how Maternity Allowance may affect your payments.
The DWP Maternity Allowance offers crucial financial support for parents who do not qualify for Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP). With payments of up to £184 per week for 39 weeks, this benefit helps individuals manage expenses while on maternity leave.
If you’re employed, self-employed, or recently stopped working, you may still be eligible. However, it’s important to consider how this allowance might affect other benefits.
To ensure a smooth application process, apply early, provide all necessary documents, and check your eligibility on the GOV.UK website.
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