maternity pay calculator uk

How this maternity pay calculator works

This maternity pay calculator UK tool estimates Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP) using the standard formula most employees follow:

• Weeks 1 to 6: 90% of your average weekly earnings (AWE)
• Weeks 7 to 39: the lower of 90% of AWE or the standard SMP weekly rate
• Weeks 40 to 52: normally unpaid (unless your employer offers enhanced maternity pay)

The result is a quick estimate to help with budgeting. Actual payroll calculations can vary slightly based on your employer’s pay cycle and deductions.

Who can usually claim Statutory Maternity Pay in the UK?

In general, you may qualify for SMP if you:

• Are an employee (not self-employed for SMP purposes)
• Have worked for your employer continuously for the required period before the qualifying week
• Earn at least the Lower Earnings Limit on average
• Give proper notice and proof of pregnancy (e.g., MATB1 form)

If you do not qualify for SMP, you may be eligible for Maternity Allowance instead.

Understanding average weekly earnings (AWE)

Your AWE is not always your headline salary divided by 52. Payroll uses a specific earnings window before your qualifying week. This can include:

• Basic wages
• Overtime (if paid in that period)
• Commission or bonuses in scope
• Statutory sick pay in certain circumstances

If your income varies month to month, check your payslips for that relevant period so your estimate is realistic.

Example SMP calculation

Suppose your average weekly earnings are £600 and your standard SMP rate is £184.03:

• 90% of AWE = £540
• Weeks 1 to 6 = 6 × £540 = £3,240
• Weeks 7 to 39 = 33 × min(£540, £184.03) = 33 × £184.03 = £6,072.99
• Total SMP over 39 weeks = £9,312.99 (gross)

If you take the full 52 weeks of maternity leave, the final 13 weeks are typically unpaid unless your contract provides more generous terms.

Enhanced maternity pay vs statutory maternity pay

Some employers offer occupational or enhanced maternity pay, such as full pay for a number of weeks or top-ups above SMP. In those cases:

• Your contract or staff handbook rules apply
• You may need to return to work for a minimum period to keep the enhancement
• The statutory element is still usually included in the total package

This calculator is focused on statutory calculations, so always compare results with your employer policy.

Tax, National Insurance, and net pay

This calculator shows gross maternity pay. Your take-home amount can be lower after tax and National Insurance, depending on your total income and tax code over the year. For precise monthly net figures, combine this estimate with your payroll deductions.

Quick planning checklist

• Confirm your qualifying week and expected due date
• Check your AWE from payslips
• Verify current SMP and Lower Earnings Limit rates for your tax year
• Review any enhanced maternity package at work
• Build a month-by-month leave budget (including unpaid weeks)

Final note

Use this maternity leave pay UK estimator as a planning tool. For official eligibility and final payment figures, check guidance on GOV.UK and your employer’s HR/payroll team.