You are entitled to a maximum 26 weeks Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP) if:

• You have worked for your employer for a continuous period of at least 26 weeks ending with t he qualifying week - that is the 15th week before the expected week of childbirth.

• Your average pay in the eight weeks up to and including the qualifying week has been not less than the lower earnings limit for National Insurance Contributions.

• You have properly notified your employer of the start date of your maternity leave with medical evidence of pregnancy (for example, a medical certificate).

The first six weeks of SMP are paid at 90% of your average weekly earnings; the remaining weeks are paid at 90% of your average weekly earnings or the 'standard rate' (£100 per week from 6 April 2003), whichever is lower.

Maternity Allowance

If you do not qualify for SMP, you may get Maternity Allowance (MA) for a maximum of 26 weeks.

Entitlement depends on your employment record and your gross earnings. MA is paid at 90% of your average weekly earnings or the 'standard rate' (£100 per week from 6 April 2003), whichever is lower.