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 both of the following apply:
- you’re expecting your first child, or you’re expecting a multiple birth (such as twins) and have children already
- you or your partner already get certain benefits
If you’re not giving birth
You may also be able to get a grant if you’re adopting or becoming a surrogate parent.
The baby must be less than 1 year old on the date you claim.