What would I be entitled to?

[bagpuss]

Just been thinking about the time when it's ready to go back to work.
I work for Royal Mail,and at the minute I am on my maternity pay,which began in April,I received full pay for 13 weeks,I am now on £106 for 13 weeks,then I am entitled to the next 6 months off with no pay.The CAB says that during that 6 months I am entitled to £55 a week IS,does that sound right?When and how do I claim?
Also,how do I stand if I didn't go back to work?I would love to be a full time Mom,however if it's not practical I will have to go back to work.
I have never done anything like this before,I have always worked,so I know nothing about it - any help or advice would be great!

 

You can only get Income Support if you are a single mum. It's something like £57 for you but not sure what extra you get for LO.

Are you single then? That will effect what you can claim or not claim.

 

[bagpuss]

Hi Sami. Well I have a partner,not married,and we don't live together.....

 

Ahhhhhhh so they shall class you as single then.I thought you had a partner

Right lemme see what you would get....BTW what way does he contribute?

 

Bagpuss are you on MSN, it's easier to chat there, I can go through ti easier with you

(swear I should work for the jobcentre)

 

If you stopped work, you shouldbe entitled to Tax Credits, IS, and if you rent you should get housing benefit x

 

[bagpuss]

Thanks Sami,I'm not on MSN,but now I know a little bit about what to ask about.
We have a funny set up at the minute,other half has his own house,but his Nan lives there,who smokes like a trooper(I swear it seems like she puts one out then lights one up)you can smell the smoke standing outside!
It really gets on my chest and plays my asthma up,my eyes swell and close up,so I couldn't live there,and we don't want Finn in such a smokey environment - it really is that bad.OH spends nearly all of his time round mine,he really only goes home to sleep.
His Nan is a real gem though,I wish she didn't smoke!!!