Financial Timeline for when you have had your baby!
Whether you're exploring parenthood, currently pregnant, or have recently welcomed a baby, there’s a lot to think about.
To make things easier, here’s a clear, step-by-step timeline of what to apply for and when, so you can stay ahead, feel more in control, and make sure you don’t miss out on any financial support you're entitled to.
Step 1: Register Your Baby’s Birth
When: Within 42 days of birth (21 days in Scotland)
This is your first official step as a new parent. You need to register your baby’s birth in order to get their birth certificate, which you’ll need for many of the steps below.
Step 2: Apply for Child Benefit
When: As soon as possible after registering the birth
Why: Child Benefit can only be backdated by 3 months, so don’t delay.
You’re eligible if both you and your partner earn less than £80,000 each (net adjusted income). Child Benefit is a regular payment to help with the cost of raising children, so make sure you claim it ASAP to avoid missing out.
Step 3: Check Your Universal Credit Eligibility
When: When your maternity pay drops (e.g. SMP or unpaid leave)
Even if you weren’t eligible before, your changing income during maternity leave might now qualify you for Universal Credit. It’s worth checking when you transition from full pay to Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP) or unpaid leave.
If you are awarded Universal Credit within the first 6 months of your baby’s life and it’s your first child, you can also apply for the Sure Start Maternity Grant - a one-off, £500 tax-free payment you don’t need to pay back.
Step 4: Apply for Tax-Free Childcare
When: 31 days before your planned return to work
If you’ll be paying for childcare after maternity leave, Tax-Free Childcare could save you 20% off your bill. You can use it before you're eligible for funded hours, so it’s perfect for the early days of returning to work.
Step 5: Apply for Funded Childcare Hours
When: The term after your child turns 9 months
You’ll be eligible for funded childcare hours the term after your baby turns 9 months old. Terms start on:
1st January
1st April
1st September
Example:
If your baby turns 9 months old on 31st August, they’ll be eligible from 1st September.
But if they turn 9 months on 1st September, you’ll have to wait until 1st January for the next term.
Want a step-by-step plan for your whole Maternity Money journey?
There are so many moving parts to think about when it comes to maternity leave - from benefits and KIT days to annual leave, childcare, and everything in between. Ever wish there was just ONE place that told you exactly what to apply for, and when?
