Mat Pay Decisions, equally spread?

[Lbelle82]

Hi Folks, I'm just new to mumsnet so apologies if this is a bit clumsy!

I've to decide now whether I want to take "normal" mat leave pay or to spread it equally over 9 months.

I'm very lucky that I work for the NHS and even have the chance of up to 9 months to a year off but I'm a worrier by nature, especially when it comes to money.

My normal mat leave pay would be 8 weeks full pay, 4 months half plus SMP, followed by the remaining 3 months SMP .......OR........I could have an equal payment every month for 9 months.

I'm not complaining in anyway as I realise I'm lucky but I'm just not sure what to do as I've always worked and never been without a full wage.

Any advice much appreciated!

Personally I would go for equal every month for 9 months. That way you know what's coming in and can budget right from the start x

Thank you, that's what I'm thinking, it would allow be to be more organised and to budget better.

Hi, I am currently on maternity leave and work for the NHS. I decided to have my pay split equally over the 9 months, however, I'm not sure if you are aware smp payments are not split it is just the mat pay from work if that makes sense, so the first 8 weeks are a little bit less than the rest of the time because the smp doesn't start until after 8 weeks. I must admit I did find he first 8 weeks a bit f a struggle without my full wage. If you speak to HR they will be able to advise and give you exact figures, I found it very confusing lol x

Hi, I am currently on maternity leave and work for the NHS. I decided to have my pay split equally over the 9 months, however, I'm not sure if you are aware smp payments are not split it is just the mat pay from work if that makes sense, so the first 8 weeks are a little bit less than the rest of the time because the smp doesn't start until after 8 weeks. I must admit I did find he first 8 weeks a bit f a struggle without my full wage. If you speak to HR they will be able to advise and give you exact figures, I found it very confusing lol x

I also work for the nhs and have just returned after 9 months mat leave. I definitely recommend the equal payments. I didn't have the chance to arrange this first time round and I never knew how much to expect until I was paid each month. Not easy to plan with this approach! During my latest leave the payments were not exactly the same each month but all within a certain range and much nicer than the approx £500 pay packets when you only get smp.

Many thanks folks, really appreciate all your advice :)