Maternity Allowance

[xoguineas]

I've been on mat leave since 1st Jan (last day of work was 31st Dec) and I sent away my second MA form confirming dates etc on the 31st after my shift.

Just wondering if anyone knows how long it takes for this to be processed and the first payment to be received?

I asked to receive my payments every 2 weeks instead of monthly so I should be due my first payment soon but haven't received any letter/text letting me know they've actually received my form! Not sure if I should call them up or if there's a standard waiting time after sending all the info along??? Totally clueless here

Usually it's about 6 weeks. But I sent mine off on the 26th of November and have yet to hear back from them. I imagine there is a bit of a delay over the holidays, which means they're a few weeks behind. I wouldn't expect to hear anything before mid-February.

@mindutopia oh god I hope it doesn't take that long or I can't afford any of my bills so frustrating!

They received mine on 6th December, it’s 24 working days from the date they receive it so taking into account xmas etc it’s a bit longner at the moment. They’ve said mine will be proceed 18th Jan with my first payment the following week.

@Timeforanamochango okay thanks. I didn't realise it would take so long for the 2nd form too as they've already processed all my info and worked out what I'm entitled to. I hoped it would just be a case of receive the letter and send me a payment date. Silly I know!

I phoned up and she processed mine over the phone there so I'm getting my first payment in my account within 5-10 days so might be worth calling up!

Hi everyone, I was hoping one of you could help me. I sent off my MA form and received the confirmation of receipt text in mid-December. I was then sent another form in early January to complete (to confirm whether I had done any additional work) which I returned immediately. I have since heard nothing. Did the rest of you get a letter or text or what confirming (a) that you will definitely receive MA; and (b) the dates you can expect to be paid?

I am getting really anxious that after all this time they will turn around and say that I am not eligible for MA .

I’m pretty sure I remember my money just turning without communication. I found them slow with letters and paperwork but prompt with payment.

Thanks @museumum. That's really helpful!