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Original poster

Maternity Allowance and Universal Credir

8 replies

momlog20 · 27/04/2022 01:00

Just a rant really and to check I’ve got this right. Absolutely devastated.

So I’m not entitled to SMP as I started a new job the week I conceived (obviously I didn’t know I was pg at this point)

So therefore I have to claim maternity allowance (same amount so no biggie or so I thought!)

From what I understand with SMP it isn’t deducted from UC entitlement as extra income just the standard 55p per £1, but Mat Allowance is deducted £1 for £1.

This means I’m missing out on around £300.00 per month just because I’m having to claim MA rather than SMP. In what world is that fair? Have I got this wrong, am I entitled to any other help?

How the bloody fuck can they do this!?

OP posts:
Twokidsanddone · 27/04/2022 01:05

No idea how they can justify it but I'm in the same boat! Started new job juussst too late for SMP. So it's MA deducted pound for pound. A fair but worse off every month for the sake of about a week too late changing jobs. Really is a kick isn't it

Original poster
momlog20 · 27/04/2022 01:13

I can’t believe it. It’s about £300 month I’m missing out on. I’m absolutely devastated, I didn’t realise there was difference until now, I was plodding along thinking that it’ll all be fine cause I’ll get some UC. All because I changed jobs, at least I’m fucking working 😡

OP posts:
Twokidsanddone · 27/04/2022 01:26

I don't regret changing jobs when I did, I needed out of my last one. But it seems like a hell of a punishment for simply getting a new job. Didn't even have a days break between the two finished one, started the next. Really doesn't feel fair

Babyroobs · 27/04/2022 07:56

Yes correct. SMP is treated the same way as wages wheras maternity allowance is a benefit in the same way as Uc is so they won't pay you the money twice. Therefore MA is deducted from Uc in full.

PollysPockets · 27/04/2022 08:02

I'm in the exact same position OP and yes it seems massively unfair!

Original poster
momlog20 · 27/04/2022 08:37

It’s absolute bull. I really still am in shock that they are doing this to people. I don’t understand why when it’s the exact same amount for MA and SMP!?

OP posts:
Babyroobs · 27/04/2022 20:42

If you have a working partner on your Uc claim then you will still benefit from the work allowance so would only miss out on the taper rate part of it.

Babyroobs · 27/04/2022 20:51

Babyroobs · 27/04/2022 20:42

If you have a working partner on your Uc claim then you will still benefit from the work allowance so would only miss out on the taper rate part of it.

Sorry that should have said the work allowance once your baby is born if it's your first child.

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