Maternity pay- self employed.

[wowiesis111]

Not sure if this is in the right place but thought some may be in similar situation.
Working self employed I know I'm not entitled to statutory maternity pay but am I right in thinking I can get 'ordinary' maternity pay so long as I've worked 25 weeks in.the year prior to my baby being born. Is this correct?
Does it have to be consecutive weeks and does part time count?
I'm a little confused what I'll be entitled to.
Thanks in advance.

[Artandco]

I think you have to go by what was earnt in last tax year

[MrsWickens]

I think it is maternity allowance you will be entitled to rather than maternity pay.

www.gov.uk/maternity-allowance/eligibility

[Teeste]

It's Maternity Allowance now, apparently, up to a maximum of £138.18 per week, 90% of earnings.

That website itself says 'This whole area is quite complicated'!! And to call an advisor if unsure.

This page is more helpful, actually - 'if you’re self-employed (you must be registered with the HMRC, paying Class 2 National Insurance Contributions or have a Small Earning Exception Certificate) for a minimum of 26 weeks in the 66 weeks to and including the week before you expect to give birth. This is called the Test Period.

Your earnings must also average a minimum of £30 per week. The 26 weeks don’t have to be consecutive and can also include part time work – which you count as full weeks.'

HTH!

[wowiesis111]

Thank you very much ladies. I think I will quality for that then as I'll have definitely worked 26 weeks in the 66 before baby's due.

[jazzyjenbo]

You can claim it after you reach 26 weeks and will get a decision within 2 weeks. I claimed this last time and will again for this pregnancy.