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Maternity Leave & SMP Key Dates Calculator

Generate important maternity leave milestones and statutory dates, including the qualifying week, SMP relevant period, notification deadlines, and maternity leave windows.

Pregnancy details

Use the due date from the MATB1 certificate if you have it.

Leave can start from the 11th week before the expected week of childbirth.
Average gross pay across the relevant period shown opposite. Used to estimate the first 6 weeks of SMP.
Key dates
Enter a due date

Expected week of childbirth (EWC) begins

    Maternity leave and pay at a glance

    • Up to 52 weeks' leave: 26 weeks Ordinary and 26 weeks Additional Maternity Leave.
    • 2 weeks' compulsory leave after birth (4 weeks for factory workers).
    • SMP is paid for up to 39 weeks: 90% of average weekly earnings for 6 weeks, then the standard weekly rate or 90% of earnings, whichever is lower.
    • To qualify for SMP, the employee needs 26 weeks' continuous service into the qualifying week and average earnings at or above the Lower Earnings Limit.

    Important considerations

    • Leave starts automatically if the employee is off for a pregnancy-related reason in the 4 weeks before the EWC, or if the baby arrives early.
    • Once notified, you must confirm the leave end date in writing within 28 days.
    • Check the current SMP weekly rate and Lower Earnings Limit on GOV.UK, as these change each April.
    • Pregnancy and maternity is a protected characteristic. Keep in touch fairly and don't treat the employee less favourably.
    Disclaimer. Our calculators and tools are designed to provide general guidance and estimated calculations only. They should not be relied upon as legal advice or used as the sole basis for employment decisions. Employers should ensure all workplace matters are handled fairly, consistently, and in accordance with current legislation, company policies, and ACAS guidance.