Preparing for maternity leave is an exciting time, but it also involves careful financial planning. While many people are familiar with Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP), fewer understand Occupational Maternity Pay (OMP)—an enhanced maternity benefit offered by some employers. If your workplace provides OMP, you could receive significantly more than the basic statutory amount.
In this guide, we break down what Occupational Maternity Pay is, who qualifies, how it works, and why it can be a valuable part of your maternity package.
What Is Occupational Maternity Pay?
Occupational Maternity Pay, sometimes known as enhanced maternity pay, is an employer-funded benefit provided in addition to or instead of Statutory Maternity Pay. Unlike SMP, which is determined by UK law, OMP varies between employers. It is designed to offer greater financial support during maternity leave and is often used by organisations to attract and retain talented employees.
Many employers—especially in education, the NHS, corporate organisations, and large public sector bodies—offer enhanced maternity schemes as part of their employee benefits package.
How Occupational Maternity Pay Differs From Statutory Maternity Pay
Here are the key differences:
1. Employer-funded
OMP is paid directly by employers as part of their maternity policy. SMP is a government-backed minimum entitlement.
2. Higher Pay Rates
OMP often includes:
- Several weeks of full pay
- Periods of half pay
- Additional top-ups on top of SMP
- Bonuses or lump-sum payments
This is much more generous than SMP, which offers:
- First 6 weeks: 90% of average weekly earnings
- Next 33 weeks: A fixed weekly rate or 90% of earnings (whichever is lower)
3. Custom Rules
Each employer sets their own conditions, including:
- Required length of service
- Repayment rules if you do not return to work
- Pay structure during maternity leave
4. Flexibility
Some organisations offer options such as:
- Spreading maternity pay over 12 months
- Combining enhanced pay with annual leave
- Salary sacrifice for childcare schemes
Who Is Eligible for Occupational Maternity Pay?
Eligibility criteria vary by employer, but common requirements include:
1. Length of Service
Most organisations require 6–12 months of continuous service before the expected week of childbirth.
2. Intention to Return
Many employers require you to confirm you will return to work for a minimum period—usually 3 to 6 months—after maternity leave. If you choose not to return, you may need to repay the enhanced portion (but not SMP).
3. Meeting SMP Requirements
Because OMP often includes SMP within it, employees typically must also qualify for Statutory Maternity Pay.
Overall, eligibility depends on your contract and your employer’s official maternity policy.
What Does Occupational Maternity Pay Usually Include?
OMP varies widely, but a common structure looks like this:
- First 4–8 weeks: Full pay
- Next 12–18 weeks: Half pay + SMP
- Remaining weeks: Statutory Maternity Pay only
- Option for unpaid leave after SMP ends
Some employers offer even more generous packages, including:
- 26 weeks of full pay
- Salary top-ups for the full 39-week period
- Bonus payments for returning to work
Always check your employer’s maternity policy or HR handbook.
How to Apply for Occupational Maternity Pay
To receive OMP, you usually need to:
- Inform your employer of your pregnancy at least 15 weeks before your due date.
- Provide your MATB1 certificate, typically given by your midwife after 20 weeks.
- Complete your employer’s maternity form or HR application.
- Confirm your planned maternity leave start date.
- Declare your intention to return to work (if required).
Once approved, your employer will give you a clear breakdown of your maternity pay schedule.
Do You Have to Repay Occupational Maternity Pay?
Some employers require repayment of the enhanced portion if you do not return to work for the minimum period stated in your contract. It’s important to understand:
- You never repay Statutory Maternity Pay
- Repayment rules should be clearly stated in your contract
- Some employers waive repayment in exceptional circumstances
If you’re unsure, speak to HR before starting your leave.
Benefits of Occupational Maternity Pay
1. Greater Financial Stability
Enhanced pay means you can take more time off without worrying about a large drop in income.
2. Encourages Returning to Work
OMP helps employees stay connected to their careers and return with financial security.
3. Better Work–Life Balance
With higher maternity pay, new mothers can focus on recovering from childbirth and bonding with their baby.
4. Increased Employee Loyalty
Companies that offer OMP often experience higher retention rates and employee satisfaction.
Final Thoughts
Occupational Maternity Pay is a valuable benefit that provides expectant mothers with stronger financial support than Statutory Maternity Pay alone. Because policies differ widely between employers, it’s important to review your organisation’s maternity scheme and understand your entitlement early in your pregnancy.
By planning ahead and knowing your full maternity benefits, you can prepare confidently for your leave and enjoy the life-changing journey of welcoming a new baby.