You are one step away from claiming Maternity Allowance. Check the eligibility criteria and the documents you will need so you can claim without delays.
Check each condition below before you claim. Having your documents ready means fewer delays.
If you are unsure whether you qualify, a free benefits calculator can give you an estimate in minutes.
Clear criteria, faster claim
Up to 39 weeksNot taxedClaim online
📋 Who can claim
- Pregnancy: You must be pregnant or have recently given birth.
- Work history: You must have worked for at least 26 of the 66 weeks before your baby is due.
- Earnings: You must have earned at least £30 a week in 13 of those weeks.
- No SMP: You must not be eligible for Statutory Maternity Pay.
- Evidence: You need a MATB1 certificate and proof of earnings.
🧮 Before you claim
- Read the eligibility rules on the official page.
- Gather your National Insurance number and bank details.
- Have information about your income, savings and household ready.
✅ Good to know
- Self-employed: Available to self-employed people who pay Class 2 contributions or have enough work history.
- Not taxed: Maternity Allowance is not taxable.
- Claim from 26 weeks: You can claim once you've been pregnant for 26 weeks.
Eligibility and the amount awarded are decided by DWP based on your circumstances.