The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is providing financial support to expecting and new mothers through Maternity Allowance.
This benefit is designed for women who do not qualify for Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP) and offers up to £184.03 per week for 39 weeks, totaling £7,117.17. If you’re pregnant or have recently had a baby, this guide will help you determine if you’re eligible and how to apply.
Who Can Receive Maternity Allowance?
Maternity Allowance is available to mothers who:
- Are employed but not receiving SMP from their employer
- Are self-employed and have been working for a minimum period
- Have recently stopped working
This benefit ensures that mothers who do not meet SMP eligibility still receive financial support during maternity leave.
How Much Can You Get?
If eligible, you could receive:
| Payment Amount | Duration | Total Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Up to £184.03 per week | 39 weeks | £7,117.17 |
However, if you take the full 52 weeks of maternity leave, the final 13 weeks will be unpaid, as Maternity Allowance only covers 39 weeks.
When Can You Start Receiving Maternity Allowance?
You can apply for Maternity Allowance once you’ve been pregnant for 26 weeks. Payments can start:
- From 11 weeks before your due date
- Up until the day after your baby is born
Applying early ensures your payments begin on time.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify, you must meet one of the following conditions in the 66 weeks before your baby is due:
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 need to be consecutive)
If You Were Self-Employed:
- Must have been registered as self-employed for at least 26 weeks
Periods of unemployment do not necessarily disqualify you, as long as you meet the minimum work and earnings criteria.
What If You Lose the Baby?
You may still qualify for Maternity Allowance if:
- Your baby was born alive at any stage of pregnancy
- Your baby was stillborn after 24 weeks of pregnancy
This ensures that mothers receive financial support even in difficult circumstances.
Can Maternity Allowance Affect Other Benefits?
Yes, receiving Maternity Allowance may impact other 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, in most cases, your payments will remain the same or increase. Always check with the DWP or a benefits advisor to see how your entitlements may change.
How to Apply for Maternity Allowance
Step-by-Step Application Guide
- Fill out the MA1 form – Available on GOV.UK.
- Provide proof of income – Payslips or self-employment records.
- Submit proof of your pregnancy – A medical certificate from your doctor or midwife.
- Send your application – By post to the DWP Maternity Allowance Unit.
Applying as early as possible ensures there are no delays in receiving payments.
The DWP Maternity Allowance is a vital support for new mums who do not qualify for SMP. With payments of up to £184.03 per week for 39 weeks, it provides crucial financial help for expecting and new mothers. If you meet the eligibility criteria, applying early is key to ensuring financial security during maternity leave.
