Guides
Simple explanations to help you understand the calculators, ask better questions and feel less lost in the wording on GOV.UK, nursery quotes and workplace policies.
Maternity leave
Understand SMP, Maternity Allowance, employer-enhanced pay, eligibility, average weekly earnings and why leave can last longer than pay.
Nursery costs
Learn how funded childcare hours work in England, why 30 hours is not always 30 hours every week, and why nursery invoices can still include extras.
After baby arrives
See who can claim Child Benefit, how much you may get, why applying early matters and how the High Income Child Benefit Charge works.
Read full guideStart with the guide, use the calculator for a quick estimate, then use the spreadsheet planner if you want a more personal workbook you can keep and update.