Statutory Maternity Pay in the UK: All You Need to Know
If you’re a working mum-to-be in the UK, it’s important to know about your entitlements to Statutory Maternity Leave (SML) and Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP). Here is everything you need to know.
SML is a period of time off work that pregnant employees can take when they have a baby. Currently, the entitlement is 52 weeks, during which the employee’s employment rights are protected. You are entitled to return to their job after their leave. You are also entitled to any pay rises, promotion opportunities or other benefits that would have been available to them had they not taken leave.
What is Statutory Maternity Pay?
SMP is a payment made to employees while they are on SML and is paid for 39 weeks. SMP is paid at two rates:
- for the first six weeks you get 90% of your average pay. Your average pay is based on your earnings when you are approximately 18 to 26 weeks’ pregnant.
- After the first six weeks, you get a flat rate of £172.48 per week (April 2023 – April 2024) for 33 weeks or 90% of your average earnings if that is less.
Your employer pays your SMP in the same way as your salary is paid. They deduct any tax and National Insurance contributions. Your employer can claim your SMP back from HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC).
It’s important to note that these benefits are subject to certain eligibility criteria, and it’s recommended that employees check with their employer or HR department to ensure they are eligible for these benefits.
Where can I learn more?
To find out more, head to the Gov website.
I hope this information has been helpful in understanding your entitlements to SML and SMP in the UK. Leave a comment if you have anything to add!
If you have any questions about SMP or benefits you may be entitled to, Maternity Action is a great resource. Maternity Action is a UK maternity rights charity, providing support and protecting the rights of all pregnant women, new mothers and their families to employment, social security and health care
