It is financially demanding to have a baby in the midst of an ongoing cost-of-living crisis. Some few extra payments can make a lot of difference and new mothers can opt for a one time £500 grant through a relatively low-publicised government program.
Sure Start Maternity Grant helps with any financial aid that you might need as a new or expectant mother, but what’s really great here is that it doesn’t have to be paid back.
This assistance from the government helps offset the financial implications involved when you are having a newborn. However, there are some specific conditions which must be satisfied for one to qualify under this program.
In terms of finances, it will help ease some stress out of your pocket in relation to expenses associated with newborns. In some cases, parents may even get more than the usual £500.
For instance, if you already have children under 16 and are expecting twins or triplets, then you could get a £1,000 grant. In fact, looking after somebody else’s child who is related to you may also qualify you for this grant, regardless of your family status.
Want more information? Just let me tell you about those who are eligible and how they can apply.
Who is Eligible for the Sure Start Maternity Grant?
The grant is available to new or expecting mothers who get certain benefits like Income Support, Pension Credit, income-related Employment and Support Allowance, Universal Credit or Working Tax Credit with disability element or child tax credit.
The grant claiming period is very specific: apply within 11 weeks before your baby’s due date or anytime during the first six months after birth. You may not qualify for this benefit unless you are expecting multiples or caring for someone else's child but have children under 16 generally.
How to Apply for the One-Off Payment
Applying for the grant is simple. You can obtain Sure Start Maternity Grant (SF100) application form through online download or post offices.
Any healthcare professional e.g. doctor/midwife should complete the statement found on page 10 of this form. If you don’t have enough time, you can submit it without that section, and they will deal with it later.
After completing the form, either send it by post to “Freepost DWP SSMG” or take it to your nearest Jobcentre Plus office. You will be sent a letter that confirms whether your claim was accepted or denied at that point in time.
If you are not eligible for Sure Start Maternity Grant, there are other government grants and schemes you can apply for to help with money.
Healthy Start Scheme can offer a yearly amount of £442 in terms of food and milk. Moreover, remember to apply for Child Benefit that could be worth up to £1,133 annually.
Nonetheless, consider the High Income Child benefit Charge if your household income exceeds £50,000. In some cases, it may be necessary to refund part of the benefit; therefore, it would be prudent to include this in your financial plan.