Sure Start Maternity Grant: who can claim and how to apply
Having a baby brings extra costs at a time when your income may already be changing. The Sure Start Maternity Grant (SSMG) is a one-off, tax-free payment of £500 from the UK government to help with the cost of a new baby. It does not have to be repaid. If you are on a low income and receiving certain benefits, it is worth checking whether you qualify and claiming as soon as you are eligible. This article covers what the grant is, who can get it, and how to apply, based on GOV.UK guidance for 2026.
What is the Sure Start Maternity Grant?
The SSMG is a one-off payment of £500 made by the government to families on low incomes who are expecting or have recently had a baby. The payment is not means-tested beyond the requirement to be receiving a qualifying benefit: there is no income threshold calculation on top of that. The money can be used for anything you need for your baby.
Who can claim?
To be eligible for the Sure Start Maternity Grant, you (or your partner) must be receiving at least one of the following qualifying benefits at the time you claim:
- Universal Credit
- Income Support
- Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA)
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Child Tax Credit at a rate higher than the family element
- Working Tax Credit that includes a disability or severe disability element
- Pension Credit
You must also meet the eligibility rules around the number of children you have (see below).
First child rule
The SSMG is usually only available for your first child. If you already have a child under 16 living with you, you will not normally be eligible. There is one important exception: multiple births. If you are expecting twins, triplets, or more, you can claim the SSMG even if you already have children, because the payment is intended to cover the additional cost that a multiple birth brings.
Adoptions
If you are adopting a baby or young child, you can also claim the SSMG. The eligibility rules around number of children and qualifying benefits still apply, but the timing of the claim is different (see below).
When to claim
This is where many eligible parents miss out. You can begin your claim from 11 weeks before your due date, not just after the birth. The claim window closes 3 months after your baby is born, so there is a relatively short period in which to apply. Claim as early as you are eligible so you receive the payment sooner and do not risk missing the deadline.
For adoptions, the claim window runs from the date of the adoption order to 3 months after that date.
You must be receiving a qualifying benefit at the time you claim. If you are not currently receiving one but expect to start before your baby is born, wait until your benefit claim is confirmed before submitting your SSMG application.
How to apply
You apply using form SF100. You can:
- Download the form from GOV.UK
- Pick up a printed copy from your nearest Jobcentre Plus
The form must be signed by a healthcare professional confirming your pregnancy or your baby's birth. Your GP, midwife, or health visitor can do this. Once completed and signed, return the form to your local Jobcentre Plus by post or in person. There is currently no fully online application route for the SSMG; the signed paper form is required.
Payments are made directly into a bank account you specify on the form.
If you live in Scotland: Best Start Grant
The Sure Start Maternity Grant does not apply in Scotland. Scotland replaced it with the Best Start Grant, administered by Social Security Scotland. The Best Start Grant has three separate payments:
- Pregnancy and Baby Payment (the equivalent of the SSMG)
- First Birthday Payment
- Early Learning Payment
The payment amounts are higher than the SSMG and the qualifying benefits list is wider. Unlike the SSMG, the Pregnancy and Baby Payment is available for first and second children (with a different rate for subsequent children). You can apply at mygov.scot or by calling Social Security Scotland.
Frequently asked questions
Who qualifies for the Sure Start Maternity Grant?
You or your partner must be receiving a qualifying benefit: Universal Credit, Income Support, income-based JSA, income-related ESA, Child Tax Credit above the family element, Working Tax Credit with a disability element, or Pension Credit. You must also usually be expecting or have recently had your first child, or be expecting a multiple birth.
How do I claim the Sure Start Maternity Grant?
Complete form SF100, available to download from GOV.UK or collect from Jobcentre Plus. The form needs to be signed by your GP, midwife, or health visitor. Return it by post or in person to your local Jobcentre Plus.
When should I claim the Sure Start Maternity Grant?
You can claim from 11 weeks before your due date up to 3 months after your baby is born. Do not wait until after the birth: claiming early means you receive the payment sooner. For adoptions, claim from the date of the adoption order within 3 months of that date.
Can I claim if this is not my first baby?
Usually not. The SSMG is for your first child only. The exception is a multiple birth: if you are expecting twins, triplets, or more, you can claim even if you already have children. If you are unsure, contact your Jobcentre Plus or the Universal Credit helpline.
What is the Best Start Grant in Scotland?
If you live in Scotland, the Sure Start Maternity Grant does not apply. Scotland's Best Start Grant, run by Social Security Scotland, replaces it with higher payments and a broader eligibility list, and includes additional payments at your baby's first birthday and early learning stage. Apply at mygov.scot or by calling Social Security Scotland.
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