Maternity Leave, Legal to still work Part Time?

Question

I am currently on maternity leave, my baby is due July 18th 07. I am aware that I will be on maternity leave for 39 weeks. My question is if i want to work part time, say when my baby is a few months old (as I have to pay bills still, and really can't survive on maternity pay) is this legal? Can I have a part time job elsewhere and still have maternity pay? Or do i need to inform my employer or quit with them first??? Any help would be great!

Answer 1

My understanding is 'Yes', PROVIDED it is less than 16 hours a week.

Answer 2

Legally you should tell your employer - they claim the smp that they pay you, back from the inland revenue. You don't have to take 39 weeks maternity (although it is nice to spend as much time as possible with your new baby). Can't you ask your boss if you can go back on a part time basis? Babies tend to bring good luck - I got made redundant after my first and then got offered another job straight away, paying £10k a year more... Do start looking for fresh opportunities before you go back to your old job, though - it's always a good time to have a bit of a change (unless you love your old job, of course!) Hope it all works out well.

Answer 3

well if you are stiill on maternity leave and you take on another job you will pay a lot more tax.

Apply for both elements of childs tax credits and working tax credits.

Also you can go in to your local social security office, taking in your MATB1 certificate and apply for a sure start Maternity grant appliation form.

This grant is eligible to you if you have a low income.

Your midwife will also have to sign your application to.

I hope this has been helpful to you.

Answer 4

. Check out this article on http://www.babyhold.com/The_pregnancy_book/Work_And_Career/Maternity_Leave_%96_What_are_My_Rights?/ for info. Your doc/health care provider should be able to give you an answer. The laws may vary depending on where you live.