UK Maternity Pay Calculator 2025

How Statutory Maternity Pay Works in the UK

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP), you must meet all of these conditions:

• Have worked for your employer continuously for at least 26 weeks by the 15th week before your due date
• Earn at least £123 per week on average
• Give your employer at least 28 days’ notice of when you want to start receiving SMP
• Provide medical evidence of your pregnancy (usually a MAT B1 form from your midwife or GP)

When Maternity Pay Starts

You can start receiving SMP from:

• 11 weeks before your due date (at the earliest)
• The day after you give birth (if the baby arrives early)
• The day after any pregnancy-related illness from 4 weeks before your due date

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get more than the statutory amount?

Many employers offer enhanced maternity pay above the statutory minimum. Check your employment contract or speak to HR about your company’s maternity policy. Some employers offer full pay for several weeks or months.

What if I don’t qualify for SMP?

If you don’t qualify for SMP, you might be eligible for Maternity Allowance from the government. This is currently £184.03 per week or 90% of your average weekly earnings, whichever is lower, for up to 39 weeks.

When should I tell my employer?

You must give your employer at least 28 days’ notice before you want SMP to start. It’s good practice to inform them by the 15th week before your due date. You’ll also need to provide form MAT B1 as proof of pregnancy.

Can I work during maternity leave?

You can work up to 10 ‘Keeping in Touch’ (KIT) days during your maternity leave without losing your SMP. These are optional and must be agreed with your employer. You’re also entitled to 2 weeks of compulsory maternity leave immediately after birth.

What about tax and National Insurance?

SMP is subject to income tax and National Insurance contributions, just like your regular salary. Your employer will deduct these as usual when paying your maternity pay.

Planning Your Maternity Leave

Before You Go on Leave

• Arrange handover of your responsibilities
• Set up out-of-office messages
• Discuss keeping in touch arrangements with your manager
• Check if you’re entitled to any enhanced benefits
• Review your pension contributions during leave

Returning to Work

You’re entitled to return to the same job if you take 26 weeks or less maternity leave. If you take longer, you’re entitled to return to the same job or, if that’s not reasonably practicable, a suitable alternative job with the same terms and conditions.

You can request flexible working arrangements when you return, such as different hours, working from home, or job sharing. Your employer must consider these requests seriously.