Question 1

Am I eligible for NHS maternity pay?

Accepted Answer

To qualify for NHS occupational maternity pay, you need at least 12 months of continuous NHS service at the beginning of the 11th week before your baby is due. You must also intend to return to work for at least 3 months after maternity leave.

Question 2

How much will I get paid during maternity leave?

Accepted Answer

NHS maternity pay: Full pay for 8 weeks, Half pay + SMP for 18 weeks (capped at full pay), SMP only for 13 weeks, and unpaid for the remaining weeks up to 52 weeks total.

Question 3

How is my maternity pay calculated?

Accepted Answer

Your maternity pay is based on your average weekly earnings during the 8 weeks before the 15th week before your due date. This includes your basic salary, regular overtime, shift allowances, and any other regular payments.

Question 4

What if I work part-time?

Accepted Answer

If you work part-time, your maternity pay will be calculated based on your part-time salary, pro-rated to your working hours (FTE).

Question 5

Does overtime count towards my maternity pay?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Regular overtime payments are included in the calculation of your average weekly earnings, so your maternity pay will be higher.

Question 6

Can I boost my maternity pay by picking up extra shifts?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Your maternity pay is based on your average weekly earnings during the last 2 monthly payslips before the qualifying week. Extra earnings during this period will increase your AWE and therefore your maternity pay.

Question 7

What happens to my pension during maternity leave?

Accepted Answer

Your pension contributions are based on the maternity pay you actually receive. However, your employer's contributions continue to be based on your full salary during the period you receive occupational maternity pay (weeks 1-26).

Question 8

Can I work during maternity leave?

Accepted Answer

You can work up to 10 Keeping in Touch (KIT) days during your maternity leave without losing any maternity pay.

Question 9

What happens to my annual leave?

Accepted Answer

You continue to accrue annual leave during your maternity leave. This can be added to the end of your maternity leave or taken when you return to work.

Question 10

When should I notify my employer?

Accepted Answer

You should notify your employer at least 28 days before you intend to start maternity leave. You'll need to provide your MATB1 form.

Question 11

Is maternity pay taxed?

Accepted Answer

Yes, maternity pay is subject to income tax and National Insurance contributions. However, because you're receiving less income, you may fall into a lower tax bracket and pay less tax overall.

Question 12

Can I spread my NHS maternity pay over 12 months?

Accepted Answer

Some NHS Trusts allow you to spread your occupational maternity pay evenly across your entire leave period. Check with your Trust's HR or payroll department whether this option is available.

Question 13

What is the difference between OMP and SMP?

Accepted Answer

SMP is the legal minimum: 90% of AWE for 6 weeks then a flat rate for 33 weeks. OMP is the NHS top-up: full pay for 8 weeks, then half pay plus SMP for 18 weeks. OMP requires 12 months continuous NHS service.

Question 14

Do NHS Professionals (NHSP) shifts count towards maternity pay?

Accepted Answer

NHSP shifts may not count towards your AWE because NHSP is technically a separate employer. Only earnings paid through your substantive Trust's payroll are guaranteed to be included.

Question 15

What happens if I get pregnant again while on maternity leave?

Accepted Answer

You are entitled to a new period of maternity leave and pay if you meet eligibility criteria. However, your AWE may be based on the maternity pay you were receiving, which could reduce your pay for the second leave.

Question 16

What if I have less than 12 months NHS service?

Accepted Answer

You will not qualify for NHS OMP but may still qualify for SMP if you have 26 weeks of service. If you do not qualify for SMP either, you can apply for Maternity Allowance through Jobcentre Plus.

Question 17

Does changing NHS Trusts affect my maternity pay?

Accepted Answer

Continuous NHS service counts across different Trusts, provided there is no break of more than 3 months. Your new Trust should recognise your previous service for maternity pay purposes.

Question 18

How do unsocial hours affect my maternity pay?

Accepted Answer

Unsocial hours premiums are included in your AWE calculation if they were paid during the relevant calculation period. Regular unsocial hours will increase your AWE and therefore your maternity pay.

Question 19

What is the qualifying week?

Accepted Answer

The qualifying week is the 15th week before your expected week of childbirth. It determines eligibility and is the reference point for calculating your average weekly earnings.

Question 20

Can my employer refuse my maternity leave request?

Accepted Answer

No. Maternity leave is a legal right. You are entitled to up to 52 weeks regardless of how long you have worked for your employer.

Question 21

What benefits can I claim during maternity leave?

Accepted Answer

You may be eligible for Child Benefit, Tax-Free Childcare, Universal Credit, Sure Start Maternity Grant, and free NHS prescriptions and dental care throughout pregnancy and for 12 months after birth.

NHS Maternity Pay FAQ