What benefit can i claim whilst on maternity leave?

[badgerchops]

i have always worked full time and just gone on maternity leave. I am due in 4 weeks. I am going to be on maternity pay for the first month and then on maternity allowance. I am having six months off work before returning 3 days a week. My partner also works but his wages are lower than mine.

I know once baby is here i can claim the usual child allowance @ �20 a week and will then be on �120 pwk maternity allowance. What else should i apply for ? Would it be income support or working family tax credit?

Im new to the benefits system and dont have much of an idea

x

[sara3]

you can't get Income Support if your partner works full time. all info is here.. http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/MoneyTaxAndBenefit s/index.htm

you should apply for child tax credits and probably working families tax credits.

best of luck :o)

[padanarm]

It depends on your joint income and circumstances. Your joint income will have decreased since you're now on maternity leave.

You may be entitled to Working Tax Credits, Housing Benefit (if paying rent) and Council Tax Benefit. When baby arrives you would be entitled to additional Child Tax Credits.

Visit the entitled to website.

Hope everything goes well with the little one.