Ways to increase your income if you're on maternity
If you're going on, or have just started maternity leave and you're struggling to make payments to your debts you may be wondering what support is available to you. We can offer you free and confidential debt advice, but we also know that improving your situation goes beyond looking at available debt solutions.
Reviewing your budget and understanding where your money is going each month is often the first step towards keeping better track of your finances. You might also find some of the following tips useful if you’re struggling with the cost of a new arrival.
Benefit entitlement
Use our online benefits checker to make sure you’re claiming all the benefits you’re entitled to. You’ll be able to claim child benefit when your baby is born and you may also be able to claim additional tax credits.
You can also find out about maternity pay and what you’re entitled to by speaking to your employer.
Sure start maternity grant
If you have a low income or receive certain benefits you might be entitled to a Sure Start Maternity Grant. This pays a lump sum of £500 towards the cost of having a baby. You need to apply for the grant between 11 weeks before the baby is due and up to the baby being 3 months old. Because it’s a grant, you don’t need to pay anything back.
If you have any questions on how maternity might affect your situation please contact us and one of our expert advisors will be able to help you.