Maternity Benefits

Star*_2-2

Hello. I was hoping to get some advice on maternity benefits. My partner and I are hoping to start trying for a baby in the next 12-18 months. He earns 22K per year and I earn 27K basic salary plus about another 5K in commission. My company only offers statutory maternity pay so if I were to take maternity leave, after 6 weeks I would only get £124 which only just covers my half of rent (£400 per month each) and council tax (£75 per month each). I wouldn't be able to cover bills, food etc - Would I be entitled to housing and council tax benefit during this time or does the system take the view that we earn to much? I would love to be able to take 9 months off. So confused!
Any help/advice greatly received

MrsManda

It may be best to put your household details into one of the benefits calculators as if you were only receiving SMP rather than your usual salary.

Benefits calculations don't take into consideration 'your half of the rent/council tax' you will be assessed as a couple with your joint income pooled.

https://www.turn2us.org.uk

https://www.dwpe-services.direct.gov.uk/portal/page/portal/ba/lp?_piref278_36249_278_36248_36248.__ora_navig=

karenx

Even on 22k per year without your SMP I doubt you will get much help. Yourself alone on 32k should be able to save quite alot of money between now and the babys birth to help you when you have a lower income

jojo_2012_2

If you waited 12-18months, used only your income to pay rent, bills etc, and put his wages aside could you either use that money to fund the 9 months off, or alternatively use the money saved to put a deposit on a house which may or may not lead to lower monthly outgoings.

Otherwise the SMP will pay for your half of the rent and council tax and he'll probably need to help you with the rest.

skintandscared_2

Benefits aside, I don't think I'd be having a baby with someone when we're still at the "my half/your half" of bills stage.... :eek: Once you're on maternity leave, there's one pot in and one pot out as far as income and bills go! Your contribution will be taking care of your new baby. Definitely try the benefits checker, but I think you'll find your joint income, even during maternity leave, will be too high. Maybe get some savings stored up before you get pregnant, if it stops you worrying a bit.