SMP & enhanced maternity pay

[NightmareWalking]

I'm 17 weeks pregnant so figured I should probably look at my company's maternity pay policy to see what I was entitled to. They offer 'enhanced' maternity pay if you've been with them for more than two years (I have), which basically works out at 6 weeks full pay, then 33 weeks at enhanced maternity pay. The enhanced pay is 50% of base salary, of which 60% is paid throughout the leave period and 40% is given as a 'return to work bonus'.

However. 60% of 50% of my base salary is less than SMP. I don't think they can pay me less than SMP while I'm off but could the company argue they are paying the full amount, it's just I will only get it when I return to work? Can anybody advise?

Obvis I will talk to HR about it but as they've tried to screw me in the past when I became disabled I'd rather have the right information when I go to them! Thanks...

Is it on top of SMP?

No, the full amount they pay includes SMP.

You will get SMP then.

On return I'd expect to get the remainder of the enhanced package.

Thanks Grevling!

You are right they have to give you at least SMP as a minimum and they are not allowed to retain any of it till you return to work. Make sure you get this sorted before you leave, you won't have the energy to fight it once you have your new baby to look after. Calculate what percentage of the 50% of base salary SMP would be (e.g. 75% if your normal salary is £360 p/w)

Most places who offer enhanced MP will pay it throughout your leave (not retaining it till when you get back) because that's when you need the money, but get you to sign an agreement that you will repay the amount that is over SMP if you decide not to return.