Use this calculator to estimate maternity pay under a UK-style statutory structure: 6 weeks at 90% of average weekly earnings, then up to 33 weeks at the lower of 90% earnings or the statutory weekly rate.
Estimate only. Always confirm exact entitlement with your employer, HR team, or government guidance.
How this maternity pay calculator works
Planning leave is easier when you can map out income ahead of time. This calculator gives you a practical estimate of total maternity pay by combining statutory pay with optional employer enhancement weeks.
Calculation model
- Weeks 1–6: 90% of your average weekly earnings.
- Weeks 7–39: lower of 90% of earnings or the statutory weekly rate you enter.
- Employer full-pay top-up: tops weekly pay up to 100% of earnings.
- Employer half-pay top-up: tops weekly pay up to 50% of earnings.
- Weeks 40–52: generally unpaid under statutory maternity pay rules.
Why use a maternity leave pay estimate?
A maternity leave calculator helps you budget with fewer surprises. Knowing your expected income over 6, 12, 26, or 39 weeks can guide decisions on savings, childcare timing, household bills, and return-to-work planning.
- Forecast monthly cash flow during leave
- Estimate savings needed before leave starts
- Compare different leave lengths (for example, 26 weeks vs 39 weeks)
- Understand how enhanced employer pay changes totals
Eligibility reminders (quick checklist)
Rules vary, but these are common requirements for statutory maternity pay:
- You are employed (not self-employed for SMP purposes).
- You meet continuous employment timing requirements before the baby is due.
- Your average earnings meet or exceed the lower earnings threshold.
- You provide required notice and medical documentation (for example, MATB1 form when applicable).
If you do not qualify for statutory maternity pay, you may still be eligible for maternity allowance depending on your circumstances.
Budgeting tips for maternity leave
1) Build a “leave runway” before your start date
Try to save enough to cover at least 2–3 months of expenses. Even a modest monthly contribution before leave can significantly reduce pressure later.
2) Split essential vs flexible spending
List fixed essentials (rent/mortgage, utilities, food, transport) separately from flexible categories (subscriptions, dining out, non-urgent shopping). This makes adjustments easier if your income dips.
3) Review workplace benefits early
Some employers include enhanced maternity packages, bonus protection rules, pension contribution details, or phased return options. These can meaningfully change your total financial picture.
4) Test multiple scenarios
Use this calculator with several assumptions—different leave lengths, statutory rates, and enhancement weeks. Scenario planning is one of the simplest ways to feel in control before leave begins.
Common questions
Does this include tax and National Insurance?
No. This calculator estimates gross maternity pay. Your payslip deductions will affect take-home pay.
Can I use it if my employer pays more than statutory maternity pay?
Yes. Enter your full-pay and half-pay enhancement weeks. The calculator estimates top-ups in addition to statutory pay.
What if I plan to take 52 weeks of leave?
You can enter 52 weeks. The tool will show paid weeks up to 39 and unpaid weeks beyond that, unless your employer policy differs.
Final note
A maternity pay estimate is best used as a planning tool, not a legal determination. For exact entitlement, confirm details with your HR department and official maternity pay guidance relevant to your country and tax year.