Understanding the Sure Start Maternity Grant: Eligibility and Application

Who is eligible for the Sure Start Maternity Grant?

To qualify for the Sure Start Maternity Grant, one must meet the following requirements:

• They must be pregnant and expecting their first child, or they must expect multiple births.
  
  
• The mother should receive certain benefits or tax credits, such as Child Tax Credit or Universal Credit.
  
  
• One must be under 20, unmarried, or in a civil partnership.
  
  
• They must be a resident of the UK, including Northern Ireland.

How to claim the Sure Start Maternity Grant

If one meets the eligibility requirements, one can claim the Sure Start Maternity Grant by filling out a claim form and submitting it to the government. One can obtain the form from their local Jobcentre Plus office or by calling the claim line.

They will need to provide proof of their pregnancy, such as a MatB1 form from their midwife or doctor.

When to claim the Sure Start Maternity Grant

One can claim the Sure Start Maternity Grant any time after the 26th week of pregnancy. They can claim the grant from the 20th week of pregnancy if they expect multiple births. It is essential to claim the grant as soon as possible, as it can take several weeks to process the application and pay out the grant.

How long does the Sure Start Maternity Grant take?

The processing time for a Sure Start Maternity Grant claim can vary, but it typically takes around six weeks from the date one submits their claim form.

Once the claim has been approved, the grant will be paid directly into their bank account.

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What other benefits and grants can one claim?

In addition to the Sure Start Maternity Grant, several other benefits and grants are available to expectant parents, depending on their circumstances. These may include:

• Child Tax Credit: This is a tax credit for families with other children under 16 (or under 20 if they are in full-time education). It is based on one's income, and the qualifying benefit is to help raise a child.
  
  
• Universal Credit: This is a means-tested benefit for people on a low income, including families with children. It can help cover living costs, such as rent and utility bills.
  
  
• Scottish Child Payment: Another grant from the UK government is a payment of £10 per week for little-income families with other children under six years old.
  
  
• Tax-Free Childcare: The UK government provides tax credits to help with childcare expenses for children between 0 and 11.
  
  
• Severe Disability Element: If one claims benefits or tax credits and has a child with a severe disability, they may be eligible for the Severe Disability Element. This can provide additional financial support to help cover the costs of caring for a disabled child.
  
  

Where can you get advice on grants?

If one is expecting a baby and wondering what benefits and grants one may be eligible for, it is a good idea to seek advice from a professional. Several organizations offer free, confidential advice on benefits and grants for expecting couples.

Your midwife or doctor may be able to provide information on what you are eligible for, or you can contact organizations such as Citizens Advice or the Money Advice Service for guidance.

It is important to note that receiving benefits or grants may affect your eligibility for other benefits or tax credits. It is a good idea to seek advice from a professional to ensure you receive the full support you are entitled to.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Sure Start Maternity Grant is a valuable financial lifeline for expecting citizens on a low earning. It can help cover the costs of a baby's birth, such as baby items or travel expenses.

To qualify for the grant, you must be expectant and receive certain benefits or tax credits. Once their application has been approved, they can apply for the grant any time after the 26th week of pregnancy, which is paid directly into their bank account.

Several other benefits and grants are available to people, depending on their circumstances.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you still get the 500-pound grant when pregnant?

Yes, as of 2021, the Sure Start Maternity Grant provides a one-time payment of 500 pounds to expectant people who meet the eligibility requirements.

Can you get a Sure Start grant maternity allowance?

Yes, the Sure Start Maternity Grant is also known as the Maternity Allowance. The UK government provides a one-time payment to help cover the costs of having a new baby.

How long does the Sure Start Maternity Grant take?

The processing time for a Sure Start Maternity Grant claim can vary, but it typically takes around six weeks from the date you submit your form. It is essential to apply for the grant as soon as possible, as it can take several weeks to process the application and pay out the grant.

What grants can one get when pregnant?

In addition to the Sure Start Maternity Grant, several other benefits and grants are available to expectant citizens, depending on your circumstances. These may include: Best Start Foods, Best Start Grant Pregnancy, Baby Payment, Scottish Child Payment, Parental Order, Residence Order, Child Benefit, Child Tax Credits, and Tax-Free Childcare.