Louise What Is a MATB1 Form & How Do You Get One?
If you’re pregnant and sorting out maternity leave or maternity pay, you’ll need a MATB1 form. But what exactly is it, when do you need it, and how do you get one?
Some women receive it automatically from their midwife. Meanwhile, others end up chasing around trying to get hold of one before work starts asking questions. If you’re not sure how it works, don’t worry—here’s everything you need to know.
What Is a MATB1 Form?
A MATB1 form is an official maternity certificate that confirms:
✅ That you’re pregnant
✅ Your expected due date
✅ That you’ve reached at least 20 weeks of pregnancy
💡 You’ll need it for Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP), Maternity Allowance, and employer maternity benefits. Without it, your employer can’t process your maternity leave properly.
Who Needs a MATB1 Form?
✅ If you’re employed – You need it to give to your employer so they can arrange Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP) and confirm your maternity leave dates.
✅ If you’re self-employed or unemployed – You’ll need it to apply for Maternity Allowance through Jobcentre Plus.
✅ If you’re claiming Universal Credit – It helps with maternity-related benefits.
📌 You must give this form to your employer at least 15 weeks before your due date to avoid delays in maternity pay.
When Can You Get a MATB1 Form?
💡 You can request a MATB1 form once you reach 20 weeks pregnant.
✅ Most midwives issue it between 20-25 weeks during a routine antenatal appointment.
✅ Some women don’t get it automatically and have to ask for it.
If you need it urgently for work or benefits, don’t wait—make sure you get it sorted.
How Do You Get a MATB1 Form?
Option 1: Through Your NHS Midwife
✅ NHS midwives usually provide your MATB1 form between 20-25 weeks.
✅ If you don’t get one at your appointment, you’ll need to request it.
✅ Some women find their midwife forgets, so be prepared to chase it up if needed.
Option 2: Private MATB1 Consultation with The Honest Midwife
If you’re struggling to get your MATB1 form or need it quickly, you don’t have to wait for the NHS.
💜 You can book a private consultation with The Honest Midwife and get your MATB1 form sorted straight away.
✅ Official MATB1 form issued following appointment
✅ Flexible online or in-person appointments
✅ No delays, no stress, no chasing midwives
👉 Book your private MATB1 consultation here: The Honest Midwife Booking
What Happens If You Don’t Have Your MATB1 Form?
If you don’t submit your MATB1 form on time, you could face:
❌ Delays in maternity pay
❌ Your employer rejecting your maternity leave request
❌ Issues claiming Maternity Allowance if self-employed
📌 To avoid problems, make sure you request your MATB1 form as soon as you reach 20 weeks. For more information regarding maternity benefits visit the government website here
The MATB1 form is essential for sorting out maternity leave, pay, and benefits—but getting one isn’t always straightforward.
💜 Need it quickly? If your midwife hasn’t given you one or you’re struggling to get it, you can book a private consultation with The Honest Midwife. This will get it sorted immediately.
👉 Book your MATB1 appointment here: The Honest Midwife Booking
