Maternity Pay

[Louise85]

Hi, this might be a really strange question - I cannot seem to find anyone else that has asked it. I am new to childminding - since about July last year and am thinking of having another baby (would love one!!) the only problem is money is tight, so my husband wants me to find out if I qualify for any statutory maternity pay. I would need to take a few weeks off, but don't plan on taking much leave. All the information I can find is about emploee's - nothing about if you work for yourself. I am new to this whole being self-employed thing - If anyone has any advice, or good websites, I would appreciate any suggestions...next choice is to phone hmrc helpline :-(

Many thanks,
Sherri

[Jellytots79]

I am sure I have seen somewhere that you are entitled to maternity pay but cant remember where. I do remember reading about how long people have off for maternity leave, some being a few months and some a few weeks. Sorry probably not much help, hope someone else can give you am better answer :)

[AgentTink]

This link should answer some of your questions about how we can be eligible for statutory pay
http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/MoneyTaxAndBenefits/BenefitsTaxCreditsAndOtherSupport/Expectingorbringingupchildren/DG_10018869

[Rosy Days]

Hiya, you should be able to claim maternity allowance if you are up to date with your NI contributions. I was off on mat leave last year for 9 months, I think I got approx £120 per week. You should be able to find info on the Directgov website. :)

[MrAnchovy]

Unfortunately the information on DirectGov is not very clear because it mixes up the criteria for employed and self employed women.

The situation for the self employed is actually fairly simple - if you have paid six months worth of Class 2 NI contributions you can claim the full rate of Maternity Allowance (not SMP), currently £128.73 per week, for up to 39 weeks.

[Louise85]

Thanks so much - that clears it up - so I just need to double check that I'm paying class 2 NI :-)

Yay - thanks for all your help :-)