Sure Start Maternity Grant
The Sure Start Maternity Grant is a one-off payment of £500 to help with the costs of having a new baby. It does not need to be repaid. The grant is designed to help low-income families with essential items such as a pram, cot, car seat, and baby clothes.
To qualify, you need to be receiving a qualifying benefit — such as Income Support, income-based JSA, income-related ESA, Pension Credit, Child Tax Credit at a rate higher than the family element, Working Tax Credit that includes a disability or severe disability element, or Universal Credit. You also need to be expecting your first child, or expecting a multiple birth (twins, triplets, etc.) even if you already have children.
You can claim from 11 weeks before your due date up to 6 months after the birth (or adoption). Claims are made using form SF100, which can be downloaded from GOV.UK or obtained from your Jobcentre or midwife. You need a statement from your midwife or health visitor confirming they have provided advice about the baby's health and welfare.
The grant is paid as a single lump sum into your bank account. It does not affect any other benefits you receive. If you are expecting twins, you receive one payment of £500 (not £500 per baby). The grant is available in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland — Scotland has its own Best Start Grant which may offer more.
Maximum amount
£500 one-off
Means-tested
Yes
Age group
Any age
Processing time
2 to 4 weeks
Key Requirements
- 1Expecting your first child (or multiple birth)
- 2Receiving a qualifying benefit
- 3Claim within 11 weeks before or 6 months after the birth
How to Apply
- 1Download form SF100 (Sure Start Maternity Grant) from GOV.UK
- 2Complete the form — you will need a health professional to sign part of it
- 3Post the completed form to the Jobcentre Plus address on the form
- 4You can claim from 11 weeks before your due date up to 6 months after the birth
What you may need
- Form SF100
- Confirmation from a midwife, health visitor, or doctor (they sign the form)
- Proof that you receive a qualifying benefit (such as Universal Credit, Income Support, or Pension Credit)
- Your National Insurance number
Helpful tips
- This is normally only available for your first child — but exceptions apply for multiple births or if you are adopting
- Claim as early as possible, as you cannot apply after your child is 6 months old
- You can claim alongside other maternity-related benefits
Form
SF100
Official page
GOV.UK →Evidence You May Need
Form SF100
Sure Start Maternity Grant claim form
Health professional confirmation
A midwife, health visitor, or doctor signs part of the SF100 form
Qualifying benefit proof
Award letter for Universal Credit, Income Support, Pension Credit, or other qualifying benefit
Hospital or birth details
Expected due date or actual birth date, and hospital details
Related Benefits
Universal Credit
Main means-tested benefit for working-age people on low income.
Varies by circumstance
Child Benefit
Universal payment for anyone responsible for a child.
£25.60/wk (first child)
Healthy Start
Prepaid card for milk, fruit, and vitamins for pregnant women and families with young children.
Up to £4.25/wk
Frequently Asked Questions
Who may be eligible for a Sure Start Maternity Grant?
How much is the Sure Start Maternity Grant?
How do I claim?
Can I claim if I already have children?
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