Statutory Maternity Pay and Maternity Allowance
Most pregnant working women and those who have very recently been employed or self-employed will be able to get either Statutory Maternity Pay from their employer or Maternity Allowance from Jobcentre Plus. Both SMP and MA are paid for up to 39 weeks and to get those payments a woman must satisfy qualifying conditions based on employment and earnings.
The medical evidence is required to confirm pregnancy. This is usually on a Maternity Certificate (form MAT B1) which is issued by a registered medical practitioner (GP) or a midwife from the 21st week of pregnancy.
Useful links
Statutory Maternity Pay and Maternity Allowance – detailed information
For detailed information on Statutory Maternity Pay and Maternity Allowance please see NI17A – A guide to Maternity Benefits.
