(in the British National Insurance scheme) a payment made to a pregnant woman who usually works but does not qualify for statutory maternity pay, normally from 11 weeks before confinement for a period of 18 weeks
Examples of 'maternity allowance' in a sentence
maternity allowance
But employers say a more generous maternity allowance would still be costly for firms.
The Sun (2010)
She may, however, still be eligible to receive maternity allowance from the government.
Times, Sunday Times (2013)
Statutory maternity and paternity pay and maternity allowance account for about 3.5 billion of the annual welfare bill.
Times, Sunday Times (2013)
After that they can receive a maternity allowance for a further 33 weeks — either135.45 a week or 90% of their salary, whichever is lower.
Times, Sunday Times (2012)
The standard rate of statutory maternity, adoption and paternity pay and maternity allowance will rise from 123.06 to 124.88 a week.
Times, Sunday Times (2010)
You may be entitled to maternity allowance, which also allows you to continue to accrue state pension rights.