Sure Start Maternity Grant Explained

The Sure Start Maternity Grant is a one-off payment of £500 towards the cost of a new baby.

You don't pay it back and it doesn't affect your other benefits, which makes it one of the more straightforward things on this site.

It's meant for the essentials — clothing, bedding, equipment — though there's no requirement to account for what you spend it on.

It isn't available in Scotland. Scotland has its own Pregnancy and Baby Payment instead, which works differently and is worth looking at separately.

Who is eligible?

You or your partner need to be receiving certain qualifying benefits, such as Universal Credit or Pension Credit.

You also need to be expecting your first child, or expecting a multiple birth when you already have children.

There's a window, and it's the thing people miss: you have to apply within the 11 weeks before your due date, or within six months after the birth. Outside that, the claim won't be accepted however clearly you qualify otherwise.

What benefits does this provide?

  • Financial Support: The Sure Start Maternity Grant provides a one-time payment of £500 to help with the costs of having a child.
  • Eligibility: Available to those receiving certain benefits such as Universal Credit, Income Support, or Jobseeker's Allowance.
  • No Repayment Required: The grant does not need to be repaid and does not affect other benefits or tax credits.
  • Multiple Births: If you have a multiple birth (e.g., twins), you may receive additional payments.
  • Application Window: Must be claimed within 11 weeks before the baby is due or within 6 months after the birth.
  • Support for First Child: Primarily for first-time parents, unless you're expecting multiples.
  • Ease of Access: Application can be made via a form available from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).

How do I apply?

  • Check Eligibility: Ensure you or your partner receive certain benefits like Universal Credit, Income Support, or Jobseeker's Allowance. You must also be expecting your first child or expecting a multiple birth (e.g., twins) and have no other children under 16.
  • Obtain the Form: Download the SF100 form from the UK government website or request a paper form from your local Jobcentre Plus.
  • Complete the Form: Fill in your personal details, benefit information, and expected due date. Have your midwife or doctor sign the form to confirm your pregnancy.
  • Submit the Form: Send the completed form to the address provided on the form. Ensure it's submitted within 11 weeks before the baby is due or within 6 months after the birth.
  • Await Decision: You'll receive a decision by post. If approved, the grant is paid directly into your bank account.

Common questions

How much is the Sure Start Maternity Grant?

£500, paid once. You do not repay it and it does not affect your other benefits.

Who can get the Sure Start Maternity Grant?

People expecting their first child, or expecting a multiple birth and already having children, where you or your partner receive certain qualifying benefits.

Can you get the Sure Start Maternity Grant in Scotland?

No. Scotland has its own Pregnancy and Baby Payment instead.

Learn More

Last reviewed 26 August 2026 by Brittany Belt, Co-founder and COO