Planning for maternity leave is exciting but also comes with important financial decisions. For many expectant mothers in the UK, Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP) is a key source of income during time away from work. But because SMP is paid in different stages—with varying weekly amounts—it can be difficult to know exactly how much you’ll receive. That’s why a Statutory Maternity Pay Calculator is so useful.
In this article, we’ll explain what SMP is, how a calculator works, what information you need, and how it helps you make better financial decisions during pregnancy and maternity leave.
What Is Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP)?
Statutory Maternity Pay is a government-backed financial benefit given to eligible employees who take maternity leave. It provides income support for up to 39 weeks, helping expectant mothers focus on their health and their newborn without worrying about finances.
To qualify, you must:
- Be an employee (not self-employed)
- Earn at least £123 per week on average
- Have been with the same employer for 26 weeks by the 15th week before your due date
- Give proper notice and provide a MATB1 certificate
If you meet these conditions, your employer must pay you SMP.
How Much SMP Will You Receive?
SMP is divided into two stages:
1. First 6 Weeks
You receive 90% of your average weekly earnings before tax.
2. Next 33 Weeks
You receive £184.03 per week (rate for 2024/2025) or 90% of your average weekly earnings—whichever is lower.
This payment is issued by your employer just like your normal salary, with deductions for tax and National Insurance.
Because the calculation involves percentage-based pay and weekly thresholds, understanding your total maternity pay without a tool can be confusing. This is where a statutory maternity pay calculator becomes invaluable.
What Is a Statutory Maternity Pay Calculator?
A Statutory Maternity Pay calculator is an online tool that estimates how much maternity pay you are likely to receive throughout your leave. It uses your salary, due date, and working pattern to generate a complete breakdown of your maternity pay.
These calculators are designed to help you answer questions like:
- How much will I earn during maternity leave?
- What will my pay look like month-by-month?
- How does SMP compare to my usual salary?
- When is the best time to start maternity leave financially?
Instead of doing complex calculations manually, the calculator provides instant results.
Why Use a Statutory Maternity Pay Calculator?
A calculator is helpful for several reasons:
1. Accurate Financial Planning
Knowing exactly how much you’ll get lets you plan for bills, childcare, savings, and household expenses during maternity leave.
2. Clear Breakdown of Each Pay Stage
The tool separates your:
- 6 weeks at 90% pay
- 33 weeks at SMP rate
- Any unpaid periods (if you extend leave)
This helps you understand how your income changes over time.
3. Helps You Decide When to Start Leave
Starting maternity leave earlier or later can affect your earnings. A calculator shows you the financial impact instantly.
4. Supports Budgeting for Long-Term Leave
Whether you’re taking the full 52 weeks or returning sooner, a calculator lets you estimate your income across the entire period.
5. Useful for Discussions With HR or Payroll
You can approach your employer with clear, calculated information about your expected pay.
What Information Do You Need for the Calculator?
A typical Statutory Maternity Pay calculator may ask for:
- Your annual salary
- Average weekly earnings (if known)
- Expected due date
- Planned start date of maternity leave
- Pay frequency (weekly, monthly, etc.)
- Contracted hours if part-time
Some calculators even estimate tax and NI deductions for a net-pay forecast.
How the Calculator Works
The SMP calculator follows government guidelines for maternity pay:
- It calculates your Average Weekly Earnings (AWE) based on your pay during a specific 8-week period.
- It applies the 90% rate for the first 6 weeks.
- It applies the fixed SMP rate or remaining 90% (whichever is lower) for the next 33 weeks.
- It totals your earnings for the full maternity period.
- It may show optional unpaid leave if you plan to take the full 52 weeks.
Some calculators also show:
- Comparison with Maternity Allowance
- Estimated take-home pay
- Weekly and monthly breakdowns
Where to Find a Statutory Maternity Pay Calculator
You can access reliable SMP calculators on:
- The official UK Government website
- HR and payroll information sites
- Maternity rights resources
- Financial planning and budgeting tools
- Some employer portals or benefit apps
Make sure you choose a calculator updated for the current tax year.
Final Thoughts
A Statutory Maternity Pay Calculator is an essential tool for any expectant mother planning maternity leave in the UK. It simplifies complex calculations, helps you plan your finances, and gives peace of mind at a crucial stage in your life.
Whether you’re estimating your first maternity leave or planning for another child, using a calculator ensures that you are fully prepared financially—and can focus on what truly matters: enjoying the journey into motherhood.