Welcoming a new baby is a joyful milestone, but it also brings significant financial considerations. To support expectant parents, particularly those on low incomes, the UK government offers a Sure Start Maternity Grant — a one-off, tax-free payment aimed at easing the initial costs of having a child.
Whether you’re a tenant planning for family life or seeking clarity on financial assistance available during pregnancy, understanding the maternity grant can help you make informed decisions. At Fraser Bond, we support clients navigating every stage of life, including transitions that affect housing, budgeting, and family planning.
The Sure Start Maternity Grant is a one-time payment of £500 designed to help with the costs of having a new baby. It does not need to be repaid and does not affect other benefits or tax credits.
To qualify for the grant, you must:
Be expecting your first child, or expecting multiple births (e.g., twins) and already have children
Be receiving at least one of the following benefits:
Universal Credit
Income Support
Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
Pension Credit
Working Tax Credit with a disability element
Child Tax Credit (higher than the family element)
You must apply within 11 weeks before the baby is due or within 6 months after the birth.
You may also qualify if:
You’re adopting a baby under 12 months
You’re becoming responsible for a baby under 12 months (e.g., via surrogacy or kinship care)
In such cases, similar benefit and timing rules apply.
Download Form SF100 (Sure Start) from GOV.UK or collect from a Jobcentre Plus.
Complete the form with your details and those of your midwife or healthcare provider.
Submit by post to Freepost DWP SSMG (no stamp required).
If you’re claiming Universal Credit, apply after the baby is born and the birth has been registered.
Once approved, payments are typically made within two weeks. If your application is rejected, you have the right to request a mandatory reconsideration.
For tenants managing rent, bills, and the costs of preparing for a newborn, the maternity grant can provide crucial support — whether it's used to buy a cot, clothes, nappies, or other baby essentials.
At Fraser Bond, we understand how life changes like pregnancy or family growth can impact your housing needs. Whether you're looking to move to a larger property, adjust your budget, or seek flexible tenancy options, our team is here to help.
In addition to the maternity grant, eligible individuals may qualify for:
Healthy Start Vouchers for milk, formula, and vitamins
Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP) or Maternity Allowance
Universal Credit childcare support
Council tax reductions or discretionary housing payments
We recommend speaking to a welfare adviser or using government benefits calculators to explore all entitlements.
The Sure Start Maternity Grant offers essential financial support to new parents in the UK. It is especially valuable for those renting on low incomes, helping to cover early childcare expenses without adding debt or affecting other benefits.
Fraser Bond is committed to supporting tenants and families throughout life’s changes. Whether you need housing advice, rental flexibility, or property options that accommodate your growing household, our team is ready to assist with personalised, professional service.
