Not sure where to post this - pregnant and benefit advice?!

avc_3

Hi, I am single, self employed and have a mortgage. My baby is due in September and I really don't know what I am eligible for in terms of financial help.

My last years income was under 10k, I have little work now as the market is so depressed (although I am trying but when no one has any money to spend it is nigh on impossible unless I change career direction completely) and I am 25 weeks pregnant.

Any advice appreciated, I have spent ages on the phone today to various 'advice'?! lines and am totally confused.
many thanks in advance
Anna

missmontana

You need to be on the benefits and tax credits board hun!

You will get Child Benefit of £20pw for a start after the baby arrives.

You may be able to claim a Sure Star maternity grant.
http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/MoneyTaxAndBenefits/BenefitsTaxCreditsAndOtherSupport/Expectingorbringingupchildren/DG_10018854

You can apply for Heath in Pregnancy Grant http://campaigns2.direct.gov.uk/money4mum2be/en/

and Healthy Start Vouchers...
http://www.healthystart.nhs.uk/en/fe/get_the_vouchers.html

hope that helps!

avc_3

Thanks so much for taking the time to reply, I shall try and copy this over to the other board (if i can find it)!
And I will have a good look at your links.
x

billius_2

If you've worked for a certain amount of weeks within the last 66weeks prior to your baby's due date you might qualify for statuory maternity allowance (I think its 13 weeks in the last 66). You will need payslips or whatever the self employed equivliant is!!! Try calling 08456088780. Thats the department for SMA at the job centre... If not you might qualify for the sure start maternity grant. Which depends on what type of benefits you are claiming (Income support, ctc, there's a long list, get in touch with the job centre. They will be able to help!). Thats a £500, one of payment. And don't forget to ask your midwife about your £190 healthy eating grant, which every pregnant woman is entitled too, it isn't means tested!! You can apply for that at 25weeks, but you only have a month to claim I think!!! I hope it all helps... And good luck for september!!!

AnxiousMum

You would also be entitled to child support from the baby's father. You can get this rolling once the baby is born by contacting the CSA. Takes two to make a baby, takes two to support one as well - both financially and if the father wants to be involved in baby's life, then emotionally as well. Good luck!