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Baby Budget Planner

Estimate the real costs of welcoming a new baby. Choose a budget level, untick anything you already have or are being given, and adjust any price to suit you.

Budget level Sets typical UK prices for every item
How do you plan to feed? Changes your monthly formula costs

Childcare

If you'll use nursery, a childminder or a nanny when you go back to work. Costs vary hugely across the UK, so enter your own figure — or leave it at £0.

Help with the cost of a new baby

You may be entitled to financial support. Check what applies to you on GOV.UK and NHS websites — amounts and eligibility change, so always confirm the latest details.

Child Benefit

A regular payment for anyone responsible for a child. Claim as soon as your baby's birth is registered — it can only be backdated 3 months.

gov.uk/child-benefit

Free prescriptions & NHS dental care

Free during pregnancy and for 12 months after your baby is born. Ask your midwife or GP for a maternity exemption certificate.

nhs.uk — help with health costs

Healthy Start

If you're on certain benefits, you could get help to buy milk, fruit, vegetables and infant formula, plus free vitamins.

healthystart.nhs.uk

Sure Start Maternity Grant

A one-off payment towards the cost of a first baby if you get certain benefits (England, Wales and Northern Ireland). In Scotland, see the Pregnancy and Baby Payment.

gov.uk/sure-start-maternity-grant

Childcare support

Tax-Free Childcare and funded childcare hours can make a big difference when you return to work. Use the government calculator to see what you can get.

gov.uk/childcare-calculator

Maternity & paternity pay

Statutory Maternity Pay, Maternity Allowance and Statutory Paternity Pay can all help while you're on leave. Check your entitlement early.

gov.uk/maternity-pay-leave

Five ways to save on baby essentials

  1. Buy second-hand wisely. Prams, cots, clothes and baby baths are often in great condition second-hand. Always buy a new cot mattress and car seat — you can't be sure of their history.
  2. Don't overbuy newborn clothes. Babies outgrow them in weeks, and they're one of the most popular gifts.
  3. Wait on the extras. Highchairs, bouncers and play mats aren't needed straight away — buy them when you're sure you'll use them.
  4. Use a gift list. Point friends and family to the things you actually need.
  5. Try supermarket own-brand nappies and wipes. They're often much cheaper and just as good — buy in bulk once you know the size.

Figures are estimates for planning purposes only and aren't financial advice.