Best Start Grant Scotland Calculator 2026
Calculate Best Start Grant amounts for Scotland. Pregnancy and Baby Payment £754.65, Early Learning £313.50, School Age £313.50. Means-tested via qualifying benefits.
Best Start Grant Eligibility & Amount
Best Start Grant is a Scottish benefit paid to low-income families at key stages of a child's life. It is not available in England, Wales or Northern Ireland.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Best Start Grant?
Best Start Grant is a Scottish Government benefit paid as tax-free lump sums to low-income families at three key stages: Pregnancy and Baby Payment (£754.65 first child / £377.35 second+), Early Learning Payment (£313.50), and School Age Payment (£313.50).
How much is Best Start Grant in 2026?
Pregnancy and Baby Payment: £754.65 (first child) or £377.35 (second+ child). Early Learning Payment: £313.50. School Age Payment: £313.50. Total potential maximum: £1,381.65 per child.
Who qualifies for Best Start Grant?
Families in Scotland receiving a qualifying means-tested benefit: Universal Credit, Child Tax Credit, Working Tax Credit (with child element), income-based JSA, income-related ESA, Income Support, or Housing Benefit.
Is Best Start Grant only in Scotland?
Yes — Best Start Grant is a devolved Scottish benefit administered by Social Security Scotland. It is not available in England, Wales or Northern Ireland.
When should I apply for the Pregnancy and Baby Payment?
Apply during pregnancy (from 24 weeks) or up to 6 months after the birth. Don't miss the deadline as you cannot backdate claims after 6 months.
Is Best Start Grant taxable?
No — all three Best Start Grant payments are completely tax-free and do not affect most benefit entitlements. They are not counted as income for Universal Credit purposes.
What is Best Start Foods?
Best Start Foods (formerly Healthy Start vouchers in Scotland) is a separate scheme providing a prepayment card for healthy food and milk. It is different from Best Start Grant but also requires qualifying benefits.
How do I apply?
Apply online at mygov.scot or by calling Social Security Scotland on 0800 182 2222. You will need your National Insurance number and details of your qualifying benefit.