Maternity Allowance

Maternity Allowance is a benefit for those who don’t qualify for Statutory Maternity Pay, including self-employed individuals such as locum GPs and dental associates.

There are two main rates of Maternity Allowance: full rate and reduced rate. To qualify for either rate, you need to meet the following criteria in the 66 weeks before your baby’s due date:

• Be self-employed for at least 26 weeks
• Have earnings of £30 a week or more for at least 13 weeks (these weeks don't need to be consecutive)

For 2023/24, the full Maternity Allowance payment is £172.48 per week, provided for up to 39 weeks. You can apply for Maternity Allowance once you’ve been pregnant for 26 weeks, with payments starting 11 weeks before your due date.

Sigma Accounting is here to help you understand and claim Maternity Allowance, ensuring you receive the support you're entitled to during this important time.