If you are planning maternity leave in the UK, this stat maternity pay calculator gives a quick estimate of your Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP). It follows the standard SMP structure: 90% of average weekly earnings for the first 6 weeks, then the lower of 90% of earnings or the statutory weekly rate for up to 33 more weeks.
How this stat maternity pay calculator works
The calculator is designed for practical planning. You enter your gross average weekly earnings and a few policy variables, and it returns a breakdown of your estimated maternity pay.
Inputs you should prepare
- Average weekly earnings (AWE): usually based on your relevant pay period before the qualifying week.
- Weeks of leave to estimate: from 1 to 39 weeks of SMP.
- Standard weekly SMP rate: this changes over time, so check the latest government rate.
- Lower earnings limit (LEL): used as part of eligibility checks.
- Employment weeks: SMP generally requires 26+ weeks with your employer by the qualifying week.
SMP formula at a glance
First 6 weeks: Weekly SMP = 90% × AWE
Next up to 33 weeks: Weekly SMP = the lower of (90% × AWE) and statutory weekly rate
Total SMP estimate: (first phase total) + (second phase total)
Example scenario
Suppose your AWE is £500 and you are estimating the full 39 weeks:
- First 6 weeks: 90% of £500 = £450/week → £2,700 total
- Next 33 weeks: lower of £450 and statutory rate (for example £184.03) → £184.03/week
- Next 33 weeks total: £6,072.99
- Estimated total SMP: £8,772.99
Your actual payslips may look different depending on payroll frequency, tax, pension contributions, salary sacrifice arrangements, and any enhanced maternity pay policy from your employer.
Common questions
Is this gross pay or net pay?
SMP is usually discussed in gross terms. Tax and National Insurance can reduce take-home pay.
What if I am not eligible for SMP?
If your earnings or employment history do not meet SMP rules, you may still qualify for other support such as Maternity Allowance. Speak with your employer and review official guidance.
Can I use this calculator for shared parental leave?
Not directly. Shared parental pay uses different rules and timing. This page is focused on statutory maternity pay only.
Budgeting tips while on maternity leave
- Build a month-by-month cash flow plan before leave starts.
- Include childcare deposits and one-off baby costs separately from recurring costs.
- Check your employer handbook for enhanced maternity benefits.
- Review your partner’s leave, tax credits, and benefits eligibility together.
- Revisit your emergency fund target to cover income changes.
Final note
This stat maternity pay calculator is intended to simplify planning conversations with your employer, payroll department, or adviser. Keep rates updated each tax year and confirm your exact entitlement against current UK legislation and HMRC resources.