Learn all about the March 2024 Maternity Allowance! Wondering about the amount and how to apply? We’ve got you covered. In the UK, Statutory Maternity Leave spans 52 weeks, divided into Ordinary Maternity Leave and Additional Maternity Leave, each lasting 26 weeks. Stay informed with our latest updates on March Maternity Allowance!
March 2024 Maternity Allowance
In the UK, maternity pay is usually influenced by statutory rules and company policies. You can even negotiate with your employer, especially in light of the increasing cost of living.
During the initial six weeks, eligible individuals receive 90% of their weekly earnings. For the subsequent weeks, it’s £172.48. Parents-to-be are recommended to use the Maternity Pay Calculator on the official website to estimate their payment. Make sure you’ve been employed during the qualifying week before your due date to qualify for maternity pay.
How Much is Maternity Allowance?
Pregnant women typically get around £6,000 from the state, and employers may provide extra. Those adopting a child enjoy the same leave as maternity leave. Maternity Allowance is £172.48 per week.
Maternity leave is granted to nearly all pregnant women, whether they are new to the job or not, provided they have worked for 80 days in the same company. In the UK, maternity leave spans about a year, and women have the flexibility to return to work before the maternity period concludes, based on their preference.
March Maternity Allowance Eligibility
According to statutory law, birth parents are entitled to Maternity Allowance if they meet certain requirements. Here are the eligibility criteria to qualify for Statutory Maternity Leave:
- Applicants must be UK citizens or permanent residents in the state.
- Individuals earning below £120 per week.
- Provide advance notice and accurate proof of pregnancy.
- The mother must have actively worked for the employer for 26 consecutive weeks leading up to the qualifying week.
- Mandatory maternity leave for 2 weeks will be compensated after the birth of the infant.
Importance Of Maternity Leave
It’s not recommended for mothers to directly place their infants in daycare as it may not ensure quality care. Paid Maternity Leaves play a crucial role in offering financial support and allowing mothers to raise their child with dedicated care and attention.
With nearly 50 percent of the workforce being female, the absence of Maternity Leave support could lead to increased unemployment for both women and employers. The financial assistance from Maternity Support helps ease the economic and mental strain on new mothers.
In developed countries globally, equal rights to parenting leaves are provided. Employees also have the option to take 1 to 2 weeks of Paternity Leave by law, which can only be claimed post-birth.
How to Apply For Maternity Allowance?
Maternity Payment kicks in 11 weeks before the baby is due. Eligible individuals need to complete the MA1 form to apply for Maternity Allowance, providing employment details from 66 weeks before the baby is born.
Ensure you have all necessary documents, including proof of income, due and birth date reports, and additional evidence.
If the employee opts out of Statutory Maternity Pay, submit the SMP1 form. After successful registration for Maternity Allowance, applicants can expect a weekly payment of £184.03.
Maternity Allowance Payment Dates 2024
Maternity Payment dates are linked to the expected week of childbirth. For instance, if you anticipate having the baby between March 3 and March 9, the claiming period starts from November 26, 2023. Here’s a breakdown for those expecting in March 2024:
| March 2024 Dates | Test Period Last Day | 15th Week Payment | Claiming Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 March-9 March | 2 March 2024 | 19 Nov 2023 | 26 Nov 2023 |
| 10 March-16 March | 9 March 2024 | 26 Nov 2023 | 3 Dec 2023 |
| 17 March-23 March | 16 March 2024 | 3 Dec 2023 | 10 Dec 2023 |
| 24 March-30 March | 23 March 2024 | 10 Dec 2023 | 17 Dec 2023 |
| 31 March-6 April | 30 March 2024 | 17 Dec 2023 | 24 Dec 2023 |
The Test Period is the 66 weeks leading up to the baby’s birth. For more precise details, check our Home Page through the provided link. We hope this clarifies any questions you may have.
