When having a baby for the first time and seeing what types of financial benefits are available, the first and possible only benefit mums to be consider is Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP), which we have discussed in a previous article. However there are other benefits available to new mums apart from SMP that are less well publicised. Here we run through the other benefits to look out for and how much they could be worth to you.

In addition to offering SMP, some employers will offer their own maternity pay scheme, which must pay at least the same benefits as SMP. The better schemes will pay 90% of salary for a period of anywhere between 3 and 6 months and possibly 50% of salary thereafter up to a total period of 9 months. If you are wanting to take 12 months off work then the final 3 months must normally be self funded.

If you are thinking of starting a family then it is wise to check your employer’s scheme as you need to be employed for a minimum period before qualifying. Such schemes usually require you to go back to work after being off on maternity, otherwise you may be required to pay an element of the benefits back.

This period might only be 6 weeks or so, in which case it is probably worth returning to work for this time before you focus on the rest of your says out of the rat race! What’s more you needn’t go back to work to your old job and you might be able to instigate working in a less demanding role which will ease you in to your new lifestyle choice.

A Maternity Allowance (MA) is available if you do not meet the criteria for SMP but have been employed or self-employed for a minimum of 26 weeks in the 66 week period ending with the week before your expected birth. You are also eligible if you have earned at least £30 per week over a 13 week period.

MA is paid at the same rate as SMP that is £124.88 per week or 90% of your average weekly earnings if less. The good news is that this payment is not taxable. Payment can start up to 11 weeks before the baby is due and the latest you can claim is the day after the birth. To clam complete form MA1 and return to the Jobcentre Plus with your SMP form, proof of earnings and your maternity certificate.

If you are not in a position to claim either SMP or MA then you may be eligible for a Sure Start Maternity Grant (SSMG). This is a one-off payment of £500 that does not need to be repaid, so if you are eligible for the grant don not delay in applying. SSMG is aimed at those families on low incomes. Ask your local Jobcentre Plus for form SF100 to apply.

A Health in Pregnancy Grant is also available without affecting any other benefits. This is a one-off payment of £190 with claim forms being available from your midwife or GP.

Author Bio: Carl Fletcher writes for Bumfluff Babies the reusable cloth nappy, baby gifts and organic baby clothes store.

Category: Finances
Keywords: SMP, MA, maternity allowance, health in pregnancy grant, sure start maternity grant, SSMG