Are you working? Book your maternity leave - you can have up to 52 weeks, up to 39 weeks of which can be paid and if you are returning to work you have a right to ask for a more family friendly working arrangement, for example flexible working or job sharing.
How does your budget look? Not made one yet? Your income and your spending change when you have a baby so sort out a budget and avoid getting into debt?
Do you know how much it costs to have a family? Research shows that it can cost between £40,000 and £184,000 to bring up a child. You need to get on top of your finances to make ends meet.
Stressed out by having a baby? Don't let arguing about money add to your worries - talk things through with your partner.
Do you know that you can get extra help from the government? Almost all families are entitled to child benefit - this will be £18.80 per week for the first child from 6th April.
Do you or your child have a disability? There are extra benefits to help you with the costs - make sure that you claim.
Did you know that 9 out of 10 families with children can claim tax credit? For a family with one child you could get £2630 per year.
Have you heard about the Child Trust Fund? When your child is born the government will give you £250 (or £500 if you're on low income) which you can save for your child. Open your child's account as soon as possible.
Are you taking time off work to look after your baby? Don't forget that this can affect your pension but there are things you can do to protect it.
Going back to work - have you looked into childcare? Most people are surprised at how expensive childcare can be, but there is help with the costs through working tax credit if you're on a fairly low income. Make sure you claim.
