Can I get the sure start maternity grant ?

[tashaf94]

Will be sending off the paperwork for the site start maternity grant soon but was just wondering a few things . I'm claiming universal credit with my partner but at the moment because I'm still receiving pay from my work we don't get anything . Yet October the 31st when I go on maternity we will get payments from them and I will always be receiving maternity pay . Should I send the forms off now or wait until I'm on maternity ? Was thinking if they see were claiming universal but not getting payments yet they might refuse it ? Thank you

I asked the same question. They said, once I start my SMP I am entitled to UC, as I’m a single parent, and therefore Eligable for the grant.

I am due to start mat leave on the 12th October. But my first UC payment wouldn’t be until mid November. They said I am best submitting the application once my baby has been born, and I have an eligible claim / in receipt of UC payments. As they will allow me to claim up until she is 6months. If I submit my claim now, as I’m not receiving payments, my application would be void.

I was in a slightly different situation- we knew we weren't entitled to UC until we had a child so applied for that, then the sure start grant after we got accepted. They may refuse it if you're not entitled at the moment, so you can try but might have to try again, or just wait until you know you're entitled.