Free tool
Maternity Pay Calculator
Estimate your Statutory Maternity Pay across the full 39 weeks — 90% of earnings for 6 weeks, then the flat statutory rate — from your gross pay.
By Clever Mum Editorial · Editorial standards
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How is Statutory Maternity Pay worked out?
Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP) is paid for up to 39 weeks:
- Weeks 1 to 6: 90% of your average weekly earnings, before tax.
- Weeks 7 to 39: £194.32 a week, or 90% of your average weekly earnings if that is lower.
SMP is paid through your employer's payroll in the same way as your wages, so tax and National Insurance are deducted. Your employer works out your average weekly earnings from the pay you received in a set period before the qualifying week, so the calculator's figure from your usual salary is an estimate.
How much SMP will I get? Worked examples
These figures use the 2026/27 rate and divide annual salary by 52. They are before tax and National Insurance.
| Annual salary | Weeks 1–6 (90%) | Weeks 7–39 | Total SMP (39 weeks) |
|---|---|---|---|
| £10,400 | £180.00 a week | £180.00 a week | £7,020.00 |
| £15,000 | £259.62 a week | £194.32 a week | £7,970.25 |
| £25,000 | £432.69 a week | £194.32 a week | £9,008.71 |
| £35,000 | £605.77 a week | £194.32 a week | £10,047.18 |
| £50,000 | £865.38 a week | £194.32 a week | £11,604.87 |
On a salary of £10,400, 90% of weekly pay (£180) is below £194.32, so the lower figure applies for all 39 weeks.
Who qualifies for SMP?
GOV.UK says you must earn on average at least £129 a week and have worked for your employer continuously for at least 26 weeks into the qualifying week, which is the 15th week before the week your baby is due. You also need to give the correct notice and proof of pregnancy, usually the MATB1 form from your midwife or GP. If you do not qualify, your employer should give you form SMP1 within 7 days to explain why.
What if I don't qualify for SMP?
You may be able to get Maternity Allowance from Jobcentre Plus instead. For employed or recently employed people, GOV.UK lists it as £194.32 a week or 90% of average weekly earnings, whichever is less, for up to 39 weeks. Self-employed rates depend on Class 2 National Insurance contributions and range from £27 to £194.32 a week. You can apply once you have been pregnant for 26 weeks.
Is maternity leave the same as maternity pay?
No. Statutory Maternity Leave is up to 52 weeks and GOV.UK describes it as a day-one right for employees who give the correct notice. Pay is separate and depends on the rules above. Check your contract for enhanced company maternity pay, which is often paid on top of or instead of SMP for part of your leave. Our maternity leave and pay guide covers notice dates, shared parental leave and keeping-in-touch days.
Maternity Pay Calculator: common questions
How much is Statutory Maternity Pay in 2026/27?
SMP is 90% of your average weekly earnings for the first 6 weeks, then £194.32 a week or 90% of your average weekly earnings, whichever is lower, for the next 33 weeks. It is paid for up to 39 weeks and is taxable.
How much maternity pay will I get on £25,000 a year?
Roughly £432.69 a week for the first 6 weeks and £194.32 a week for the next 33 weeks: about £9,008.71 before tax and National Insurance over 39 weeks. Your employer's figure depends on your actual earnings in the relevant period.
Do I pay tax on maternity pay?
Yes. SMP is paid through payroll like your normal wages, so Income Tax and National Insurance are deducted where your earnings are high enough. Maternity Allowance is not taxable.
What is the earnings threshold for SMP?
You need average weekly earnings of at least £129 before tax, plus at least 26 weeks' continuous employment with your employer into the 15th week before your baby is due. If you do not qualify, you may be able to claim Maternity Allowance.