The costs involved in neonatal care can be expensive and often adds to the stress parents are already experiencing from having an unwell preemie baby. It may be important to exploring avenues for financial assistance

Importantly you can be sure your baby will be taken care of regardless of your personal finances. But you should also know that there are some resources and financial assistance that you may qualify for.

Ask NICU staff to connect you with financial resources

The first thing you should do is ask staff from the NICU whether there is someone at the hospital who provides financial advice. Some hospitals have financial counsellors or social workers who can offer assistance or point you in the right direction. Hospitals often have patient advice and liaison services which will be able to link you up with local sources of support.

Research other sources of financial assistance

The sources of support you may be able to access can vary between countries but the following is a list of ideas and is somewhere for you to start.

Family Assistance

Many countries have some sort of family allowance or child benefit system. Check for details on the government website.

Family Assistance Office

The Australian government established the Family Assistance Office to help families’ access government services. Visit their website to find out about a range of payments that will help you manage financially with the early birth of your tiny preemie.

Family assistance website

Baby Bonus (Australia)

In Australia Baby Bonus is available to all families following the birth of your baby and is paid for each child in a multiple birth. It is paid in 13 fortnightly instalments. You can lodge a claim online or contact the department by phone. For more information about Baby Bonus visit the Australia government website at

Baby bonus website

Child Benefit (UK)

Child Benefit is tax free payment that is available to anyone raising a child, regardless of your income. Visit the website for more information and to see if you qualify.

Child benefit website

Child Tax Credit

Some countries have a system that enables parents to claim extra money for caring for your dependents. It is usually paid to the person caring for the child and will usually depend on your personal family circumstances and income. Check government websites for details.

Crisis Loan

A crisis loan is sometimes available to families to help them meet urgent costs in an emergency.

Paid Parental Leave

Paid parental leave is meant to help parents take time off work when they have a baby. It is a temporary payment until you go back to your job.

Australian website
UK website

Charities

 

There are thousands of charities around the world and some of them give money, equipment or other support to families in need. Some charities will support families who have a child or baby with specific disabilities. You should also consider approaching organisations that are linked to your work if there are any. Also consider any other links you may have to organisations like trade unions, professional associations or the armed services. Various faith groups may also have funds or services available for you and your family.

Ronald McDonald House

The Ronald McDonald House Charities provide a house for families of children with serious illness to stay during their time in hospital. Ronald McDonald Houses are attached to major women and children’s hospitals. In addition to providing accommodation families are supported by experienced House Managers, volunteers, and other families in similar situations. The charity tries to help any family they can but priority is given to those families who have to travel the furthest.