Self-employed individuals in the UK do not usually qualify for Statutory Maternity Pay, as this is paid by employers. Instead, many self-employed parents can claim Maternity Allowance, a government benefit designed to provide financial support during pregnancy and after childbirth.
You may be eligible for Maternity Allowance if, during the 66 weeks before the week your baby is due (known as the test period), you were self-employed or employed for at least 26 weeks. In addition, in at least 13 of those weeks, you must have earned £30 or more per week before tax. Being registered for Self Assessment and having a National Insurance record for that period is an important part of establishing eligibility.
If your claim is successful, Maternity Allowance can be paid for up to 39 weeks. The weekly amount is the higher of the standard Maternity Allowance rate for the relevant tax year or 90% of your average weekly earnings, subject to the maximum cap set by the government.
To apply, you must complete form MA1, either online or by post. You will need to provide evidence of your self-employment or earnings, along with confirmation of your baby’s due date, usually in the form of a MAT B1 certificate from your doctor or midwife. Claims can be submitted up to 11 weeks before the expected week of childbirth and applying early helps ensure you receive your full entitlement without delay.
While receiving Maternity Allowance, you are permitted to work up to 10 “keeping-in-touch” days. If you exceed this limit, your payments may be reduced or stopped. You must also inform the relevant authority promptly of any changes in your circumstances.
Conclusion
Maternity Allowance provides essential financial support for self-employed parents who are not entitled to Statutory Maternity Pay. With up to 39 weeks of payments available, eligibility depends on your work history and earnings during the test period. Applying early, maintaining accurate records, and complying with the rules around work during the allowance period will help ensure you receive the support you are entitled to.
