You could get a one-off payment of £500 to help towards the costs of having a child. This is known as a Sure Start Maternity Grant.
You usually qualify for the grant if:
- you’re expecting your first child - or you’re expecting a multiple birth (eg twins) and have children already
- you already get certain benefits
You must claim the grant within 11 weeks of the baby’s due date or within 3 months after the baby’s birth.
You don’t have to pay the grant back and it won’t affect your other benefits or Tax Credits.