My MAT B1 form is going to be late! How much of a problem is this?

[YanknCock]

I saw the midwife at 22 weeks, asked about getting my MAT B1 form, but she said she didn't have any and told me to ask the GP. Am not scheduled to see her until I'm 26 weeks (next Wed).

Saw GP on Friday, and was told that the GP's office has never kept a supply of the MAT B1 forms (only the free prescription ones), and only the midwives give them out. Slightly annoyed as MW works closely with this particular GP practice, so I think should have known they don't have them!

Problem is, I am exactly 25 weeks today. I thought that as long as I'd told my employer when I wanted to start my mat leave/pay before 25 weeks, all would be okay. Now looked at a few websites which seem to suggest I needed to turn the actual form in before today.

I did already tell employer in writing when I wanted mat leave/pay to start (29 weeks). So far they have not written to acknowledge that (off on preg-related sick leave at the moment).

So is this going to be a big problem? Have phoned midwife's office and requested a call back, hoping I can pop over and get the form today or latest tomorrow and get it in the post.

won't be a major problem. with my second and third babies didn't get it till my 28wk appointment.

the employer needs the matb1 to claim back the SMP so payroll just need time to process it.

It will be fine, you have given the proper written notice and will be able to follow up with the form shortly.

Thank you. I think they pay SMP in the same pattern as your normal pay, so wouldn't be expecting a paycheque with SMP in it till end of June. Mind you, HR/Payroll are notorious for screwing stuff up, so will badger them for written confirmation of this once I send the form.

Thanks again, I feel better now! Will wait less impatiently for MW to phone back.

Just make sure you photocopy the MATB1 before sending it to Payroll/HR as getting a replacement is a right bugger apparently...

It's not a problem at all, and although I would photocopy it as a precaution, I didn't and my husband through the first one away, and I just asked for a second one. I did see my midwife about 4 time a week though!!!