Hello all! I am new to mumsnet, 22 weeks pregnant and panicking constantly over maternity allowance. Please take the time to read my story as it is a very confusing one!
I had been travelling the world for 3 years and working in Australia . I returned home (UK) with my partner when I found out I was pregnant (14 weeks). I instantly applied for my old job and got it back no problem. I started work on the 18/03/19. I work full time and pay full NI contributions.
I am not entitled to statuary maternity pay (SMP) from my employer, they said I would probably be entitled to maternity allowance from the government.
I am due on the 20th of September.. I have to have been employed 26 weeks before the week my baby is due (14th) . I will have just been employed 26 weeks.
I called the jobcentre and the woman said if my baby is early I won't get anything.. But online it says the test period doesn't change even if your baby is early.I was employed for 6 months in Australia and will have paid more than the 13 weeks NI contributions. However if my baby is early I will have been employed for 26 weeks by the end of my test period...BUT I will have to take maternity leave.. I am planning to take holiday from the start of September so will leave work when I'm 37 weeks..but start maternity leave at 39 weeks..
I have some questions that are driving me insane so if anyone could help me I will virtual hug you forever!
If she's early will I actually receive nothing despite working throughout my pregnancy?
Can I still make my claim before the 16th of September or will they make me wait until then to ensure I've been employed 26 weeks? Will they straight out deny it before?
I appreciate it's a very strange situation. I have proof of my employment in Australia for 12 weeks earlier in my test period too..
Will they even take that into account?
Pregnancy is hard enough without this terminology driven minefield to work through!
Wish I'd of stayed out of the UK at this rate :(