Work​Entitlements.co.uk

Am I eligible for Statutory Maternity Pay?

Two tests, both measured at the qualifying week — the 15th week before your due week: 26 weeks of continuous service with the same employer, and average earnings of at least £129 a week in the run-up to it.

The two SMP tests

2026/27

26 weeks' service + £129/week earnings

Miss either test and SMP isn't payable — but Maternity Allowance almost always is. Being pregnant when you started the job doesn't matter; agency and zero-hours workers can qualify.

Your details

Roughly annual salary ÷ 52, or your typical weekly pay before tax.

The service test, precisely

You need to have been continuously employed for at least 26 weeks going into the qualifying week. In practice: if you started on or before the Saturday ~41 weeks before the due week, you pass. Because the qualifying week is about 25 weeks before birth, anyone who was already employed when they conceived normally qualifies.

Common questions

I fail the earnings test — what do I get instead?
Maternity Allowance: £27–£194.32 a week for 39 weeks depending on your recent work and NI record. Claim from Jobcentre Plus (form MA1) — not through your employer.
I changed jobs during pregnancy — do I lose SMP?
From the new employer, usually yes (you won't reach 26 weeks by the qualifying week). Maternity Allowance covers this gap — your work history across employers counts for MA.
Do agency or zero-hours workers get SMP?
Yes, if the same agency/employer has paid you for 26 weeks into the qualifying week and your average earnings clear £129. Otherwise, Maternity Allowance.
What proof does my employer need?
The MATB1 certificate (from your midwife around week 20) plus notice of your EWC and start date by the end of the qualifying week.

Related calculators & guides

Sources for the figures on this page

Last checked 3 July 2026

How we keep these current: methodology & update policy.