Before you start your claim for Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP), make sure you have everything to hand. These are the main requirements and the step-by-step guide to claiming through the official channel.
Check eligibility on the official page →
Read the requirements and steps below first, so you can make your claim on the official page in one go.
Claiming is always free. Never pay anyone to make a claim for you.
Documents ready = faster claim
Paid by employerUp to 39 weeksTaxable
📋 Requirements
- Employee status: You must be an employee, not self-employed.
- Service: You must have worked for your employer continuously for at least 26 weeks into the 15th week before the due week.
- Earnings: You must earn on average at least £129 a week (2026/27).
- Notice and proof: You must give notice and proof of pregnancy, usually a MATB1 form.
🚀 How to claim, step by step
- Get your MATB1 certificate from your midwife or GP
- Tell your employer when you want SMP to start, at least 28 days before
- Your employer confirms how much you'll get
- Receive SMP through payroll
Your employer decides whether you qualify; if you don't, you may be able to get Maternity Allowance.
Start your claim on the official page →
General information only. We are not part of the government. Claiming is free on the official page — you never need to pay anyone to claim.