# Maternity Leave Budget Tips

> 8 ways to stretch maternity leave money without stress.
- Title: Maternity Leave Budget Tips · MadeForMums | Shortify
- Summary: 8 ways to stretch maternity leave money without stress. Expectant parents can save money on maternity leave by using annual leave, employee benefits, and…
- Keywords: maternity leave, budget, savings, annual leave, employee benefits, nappies, formula, shared parental leave, kit days, product testing, vinted, etsy
- Source: MadeForMums — https://madeformums.com/features/can-you-afford-maternity-leave
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: maternity leave, budget, savings, annual leave, employee benefits, nappies, formula, shared parental leave, kit days, product testing, vinted, etsy
## 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.
## Key takeaway

Expectant parents can save money on maternity leave by using annual leave, employee benefits, and smart shopping habits.