Updated for 2026 to 2027
Maternity pay guides
The rules behind the numbers. Each guide cites its official sources; every calculator in them is worked to the 2026 to 2027 rates.
Statutory Maternity Pay rules
- Statutory Maternity PayHow much you get, for how long, who pays it and how it is taxed.
- The qualifying weekThe test that decides whether you get SMP, and when it falls.
- How to apply for SMPNotice, proof of pregnancy, form SMP1 and what happens if you are refused.
- Keeping in touch days payUp to 10 days of work during leave, and how they are paid.
- Zero hours contract maternity paySMP when your hours and pay change week to week.
- The MATB1 formWhen you get your MATB1 and how to use it to claim.
Employer schemes and paying it back
- Enhanced maternity payHow employer schemes work on top of SMP, and what strings attach.
- Teachers' maternity payThe Burgundy Book, SNCT and Northern Ireland scheme rules.
- Paying back maternity paySMP is never repayable. Which scheme pay is, and on what terms.
Other payments and the employer side
- Maternity AllowanceThe government payment when SMP is not payable, and who qualifies.
- Sure Start Maternity GrantThe one-off grant for families on certain benefits.
- Maternity pay for employersPaying SMP correctly and reclaiming it from HMRC.
Work out your own numbers
Reading finishes where calculation starts. The Maternity Pay Calculator shows your SMP week by week, the employer scheme comparison covers occupational pay, and the calculators by situation handle tax, dates and partners.