Statutory Maternity Pay Calculator
Enter your average weekly earnings and the number of weeks of pay you want to see, up to 39.
Rates checked against GOV.UK on 18 October 2026 for 2026/27. This is an estimate to help you plan and not advice.
Worked examples
Earning £500 a week
£500 average weekly earnings, 39 weeks
£9,112.56
6 weeks at £450 is £2,700, and 33 weeks at £194.32 is £6,412.56.
About Statutory Maternity Pay Calculator
Statutory Maternity Pay, or SMP, is the minimum your employer must pay while you are on maternity leave, for up to 39 weeks. For the first 6 weeks you get 90% of your average weekly earnings. For the remaining 33 weeks you get the lower of £194.32 a week or 90% of your average weekly earnings. The figures here are the 2026/27 rates from GOV.UK.
To qualify you must have worked for your employer for at least 26 weeks continuing into the qualifying week, which is the 15th week before the baby is due, and earn on average at least £129 a week. Enter your average weekly earnings and the page works out the weekly pay in each period and the total, so you can plan your household budget before and during leave.
How to use Statutory Maternity Pay Calculator
- Enter your average weekly earnings before tax.
- Enter the number of weeks of pay you want to see, up to 39.
- Check the weekly pay for the first 6 weeks and the later weeks.
- Read the total and compare it with your usual take-home pay.
Common uses
- Planning household income during maternity leave
- Deciding how long to take off
- Comparing statutory pay with an employer's enhanced scheme
- Working out how much to save before leave starts
Frequently asked questions
How much is Statutory Maternity Pay?
The first 6 weeks are 90% of your average weekly earnings. The next 33 weeks are £194.32 or 90% of your average weekly earnings, whichever is lower. These are the 2026/27 rates.
Who qualifies?
You must have worked for your employer for at least 26 weeks into the qualifying week, earn on average at least £129 a week, and give the right notice and proof of pregnancy. The page warns you if your earnings are under £129.
How are average weekly earnings worked out?
Your employer works them out from your pay in the weeks before the qualifying week, normally eight weeks. Ask them for the figure they used.
Is SMP taxed?
Yes. Tax and National Insurance are deducted in the same way as normal pay.
What if I do not qualify?
You may be able to claim Maternity Allowance instead. GOV.UK has the details and a maternity planner.