Can I get Maternity Pay if I am self-employeed?

Sorry to be the bearer of bad news…you won’t get Statutory Maternity Pay BUT there is a silver lining as you could get Maternity Allowance. This pays £140 a week for 39 weeks or 90% of your average weekly earnings (whichever is less). You can read up on the qualifying rules here. 

Another option is to consider opening a Ltd company because you can be employed by that company and then follow the rules to qualify for statutory mat pay which is pays more. Big red flag: This has to be done before you get pregnant. 

Moving from self-employed to Ltd company may also bring other tax and liability benefits. We have a guide for this. 

This is not professional advice! If you want some of that speak with an accountant or financial advisor.