Maternity Allowance calculator & planner UK
Plan maternity leave when Maternity Allowance is the income route.
If Statutory Maternity Pay does not apply, Bump & Balance can model Maternity Allowance as part of the household plan — particularly useful for self-employed users.
UK planning tool · 2026/27 rates · free to use
Not an SMP substitute with identical rules
Maternity Allowance has its own eligibility and calculation rules. The planner therefore treats it as a separate route rather than pretending every user receives SMP.
Use the amount you expect to receive
You can use the maximum rate as a scenario or enter your own expected weekly figure once you have a clearer entitlement estimate.
Model the full leave around it
Even when Maternity Allowance is paid for part of your leave, the household may need to cover later weeks from partner income, savings or reduced spending.
Keep business turnover out of the household budget
For self-employed planning, use a realistic personal take-home amount after business costs and tax set-asides rather than treating turnover as spendable household income.
Common questions
Maternity money planning, in plain English
How much is Maternity Allowance in 2026/27?
The published standard maximum rate is £194.32 a week, but the amount you receive can be lower depending on your circumstances.
Is Maternity Allowance only for self-employed people?
No. It can also apply to some people who are employed or have recently worked but do not qualify for Statutory Maternity Pay.
Does Bump & Balance decide whether I qualify?
No. It is a financial planning tool, not an eligibility checker. Use the official Maternity Allowance service for entitlement.
Can I enter a lower expected amount?
Yes. The planning route can use an editable weekly amount rather than assuming everyone receives the maximum.
Build a maternity plan around the income you realistically expect.
Add Maternity Allowance, your normal household costs, baby spending and current savings to see the overall position.
Build my maternity plan