Are you expecting your first child? Then you could get a one-off payment of £500 to help towards the costs of having a child. This is known as the Sure Start Maternity Grant.
You usually qualify for the grant if both of the following apply:
you’re expecting your first child, or you’re expecting a multiple birth (such as twins) and have children already
you or your partner already get certain benefits
You must claim the grant within 11 weeks of the baby’s due date or within 6 months after the baby’s birth.
You do not have to pay the grant back and it will not affect your other benefits or tax credits.
Eligibility
Usually, to qualify for a Sure Start Maternity Grant there must be no other children in your family. You or your partner must also get one of these benefits:
Income Support
income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
income-related Employment and Support Allowance
Pension Credit
Child Tax Credit
Working Tax Credit that includes a disability or severe disability element
Universal Credit
You may also qualify if you’re getting a Support for Mortgage Interest loan.
Click here for full details of this grant and how to claim it.