Boring question about maternity allowance stuff zzzzzzzz.......

[Bodkin]

Hi - can anyone help, I just can't remember what I'm supposed to do when. I've got a vague recollection I need a MATB1 certificate or something to put in the claim for maternity allowance. Do I ask for this, or does it get sent to me, and if so, when do I get it (am 21 weeks now)?

Also, the exemption certificate (free NHS care) - when should I get / have got that? Just presumed it would arrive in the post sometime after my booking-in appt, but guess I have to get off my backside and do something about that as well do I?

Sorry, I know this is terminally dull stuff, but will appreciate any help

[TheBlonde]

MATB1 you have to ask the MW for - around now I think

The exemption cert (free prescriptions/dental care) should have been filled out at your booking in appt - did you fill in a form? if not you need to ask doc/mw for it

[Jennster]

You have to sign the form. Neither my midwife or my surgery mentioned it either time with me. Had to ask for it myself. They come pretty quickly. Mat B1 is around now. Can't remember when or where I pick mine up from though.

[hotmama]

Re exemption certificate - my midwife gave me a form to fill in at my booking in appointments - then got sent off to Newcastle.

My midwife gave me a MATB1 when I was about 24 weeks pregnant. You need a MATB1 to give to your employer when giving notice about when you are going to start maternity leave.

HTH

[Bodkin]

Thanks for your responses. Will get on to my MW tomorrow.