From MadeForMums · · 1m 40s
Maternity Leave Budget Tips
8 ways to stretch maternity leave money without stress.
In brief
8 ways to stretch maternity leave money without stress. Expectant parents can save money on maternity leave by using annual leave, employee benefits, and smart shopping habits. Originally reported by MadeForMums.
Money worries during pregnancy
73% of women worry about money while pregnant or on maternity leave according to a 2024 Maternity Action survey.
Maternity pay basics
Statutory Maternity Pay is £187.18 per week from April 2025 for 39 weeks with employers paying at least 90% of average weekly earnings for the first 6 weeks.
Calculate your leave budget
Add up maternity pay received over leave duration and divide by months or weeks to see if you can cover bills and rent.
Use annual leave wisely
Accrue annual leave to extend maternity leave without losing pay, or stagger return to work with short breaks.
Maximize employee benefits
Negotiate Keeping in Touch days and Shared Parental Leave to boost income during maternity leave.
Identify easy cutbacks
Track spending to find patterns like expensive takeaways or subscriptions that cost more than £30 monthly.
Find free parenting events
Join free local meets at churches, councils, or health visitors to meet other parents without spending.
Earn money while on leave
Sell unwanted items on Vinted or do mystery shopping to add cash to your maternity leave budget.
Shop smart for baby needs
Use budget-friendly nappies, formula, and second-hand clothes to stretch your maternity leave money.
Make savings work harder
Open a Fixed Rate ISA during pregnancy to lock in savings until the third month of maternity leave.
Apply for government benefits
Check eligibility for universal credit and child benefit to help with maternity leave costs.
At a glance
Expectant parents can save money on maternity leave by using annual leave, employee benefits, and smart shopping habits.
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