Maternity Pay 2026: What You're Entitled To

Having a baby is an exciting time, but it can also bring plenty of questions about money. One of the most common is how much you’ll receive while you’re on maternity leave.

Understanding Maternity Pay before your baby arrives can help you plan ahead, budget with confidence and reduce financial stress during an important time for your family.

This guide explains maternity pay in simple terms, so you know what to expect.

What is Maternity Pay?

Maternity pay is money you may receive while you’re away from work after having a baby.

Many employees qualify for Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP), although some employers choose to offer enhanced maternity pay as part of their employee benefits.

If you don’t qualify for Statutory Maternity Pay, you may still be able to receive Maternity Allowance, depending on your circumstances.

Who Can Get Statutory Maternity Pay?

You may qualify if you:

• are employed
• earn at least the minimum amount required to qualify
• have worked for your employer for long enough before your baby’s due date
• give your employer the correct notice and proof of your pregnancy.

Your employer will usually let you know whether you qualify.

Maternity pay and leave: Eligibility – GOV.UK

How Much Will I Receive?

If you qualify for Statutory Maternity Pay:

• For the first six weeks, you’ll usually receive 90% of your average weekly earnings.
• After that, you’ll receive the current statutory weekly rate (or 90% of your average earnings if that’s lower) for the remaining qualifying weeks.

What If I Don’t Qualify?

Not everyone is eligible for Statutory Maternity Pay.

If you don’t qualify, you may still be able to claim Maternity Allowance if you’ve recently been employed or self-employed.

It’s worth checking your eligibility before your maternity leave begins so you know what financial support may be available.

The amount you receive may differ if your employer offers enhanced maternity pay.

Planning Ahead

Preparing financially before your maternity leave can help make the transition a little easier.

Some simple steps include:

• reviewing your monthly budget
• building up savings before your baby arrives
• planning for one-off costs such as a cot, pram or baby clothes
• checking what support or benefits you may be entitled to
• speaking to your employer about your maternity leave and pay.

Even saving a small amount each month can help create a financial cushion for unexpected expenses.

Need Help Managing Your Money?

We’re here to help people build stronger financial futures.

Whether you’re saving for your growing family or looking for affordable financial support when life throws up unexpected costs, we’re here to help.

Take a look at our savings accounts and financial guidance for more ways to plan ahead.

Baby Costs Calculator – Derbyshire Community Bank

Financial Guidance Money Tools – Derbyshire Community Bank

Useful Links

You can find more information about maternity pay and your rights on the GOV.UK – Maternity pay and leave: Overview – GOV.UK

You may also wish to check whether you’re entitled to other support such as Child Benefit or Maternity Allowance. – Child Benefit payment dates: When you get paid – GOV.UK