How much maternity pay will you actually get?

UK Statutory Maternity Pay rates 2025/26

Statutory Maternity Pay is paid for up to 39 weeks. The amount you receive depends on your average weekly earnings and how many weeks you take.

Weeks 1–6: 90% of your average weekly earnings (no cap). Weeks 7–39: £184.03 per week, or 90% of earnings if lower. Weeks 40–52: Unpaid additional maternity leave.

Enhanced maternity pay

Many UK employers offer pay above the statutory minimum. Common packages include full pay for the first 12 or 26 weeks, or a percentage top-up. Check your contract or staff handbook, and ask HR directly — you have a right to know.

This calculator is one of the few that lets you factor in your employer's enhanced policy, so you see your real total.

5 things to do now

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  Check your enhanced maternity policy. Many women do not realise their employer pays above statutory.
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  Use annual leave strategically. You accrue holiday during maternity leave. Adding it before or after extends your time on full pay.
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  Apply for Child Benefit immediately after birth. Worth £25.60/week for your first child — not automatic.
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  Check Universal Credit eligibility. During SMP weeks, you may qualify for a top-up.
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  Confirm pension contributions. Your employer must continue based on full salary during SMP weeks.