Financial support for pregnant individuals who cannot get Statutory Maternity Pay from an employer (e.g., self-employed, short-tenure, or low-earning workers).
Families & Maternity
Up to £194.32/wk (or 90% of average gross weekly earnings, whichever is lower)
Department for Work and Pensions (DWP)
Tick off each condition below. You'll usually need to meet all of them to qualify.
Download and print the MA1 Maternity Allowance claim form from GOV.UK.
Obtain your MAT B1 maternity certificate from your midwife or doctor.
Post the completed form, MAT B1, and proof of earnings (or SMP Refusal Form SMP1) to the DWP.
Maternity Allowance claims can be combined with local council Sure Start / Maternity Grant applications, free local health prescriptions, and local council family hardship funds.
An allowance paid to parents or guardians responsible for raising a child under 16 (or under 20 in approved education or training).
View guide Low Income & Working AgeThe main monthly payment for people of working age who are on a low income, out of work, or unable to work due to health conditions.
View guide