The fit note is one of the most important documents in UK employment law — and yet most people don't really understand how it works until they need one. Here's your simple, complete guide.
WHAT IS A FIT NOTE?
A fit note (formally called a Statement of Fitness for Work, or Med 3) is a document from a healthcare professional that tells your employer about your health and its effect on your ability to work.
Despite the name change in 2010, most people — including most employers — still call it a sick note. It's the same thing.
WHAT ARE THE TWO OPTIONS ON A FIT NOTE?
Every fit note says one of two things:
"Not fit for work" — you cannot work in any capacity at this time.
"May be fit for work" — you could potentially work, but with adjustments. The note will specify what adjustments might help (reduced hours, different tasks, working from home, etc.).
HOW LONG IS A FIT NOTE VALID FOR?
A fit note covers a specific period. For short-term illness, this might be 1-2 weeks. For longer conditions, it can cover up to 3 months at a time. Your doctor will specify the dates.
WHAT DOES YOUR EMPLOYER DO WITH IT?
Your employer reads the fit note and uses it to make decisions about:
● Whether you can return to work (and in what capacity)
● Whether modifications can be made to accommodate a "may be fit for work" note
● Processing your sick pay
● Absence management
WHAT IF YOUR EMPLOYER DISAGREES WITH THE FIT NOTE?
Your employer cannot overrule a fit note. However, if the note says "may be fit for work" and your employer cannot make the recommended adjustments, the note automatically reverts to "not fit for work."
WHAT IF YOU GET BETTER BEFORE THE NOTE EXPIRES?
You can return to work before the fit note expires — you don't have to wait until the end date. The note is not an instruction to stay off; it's medical documentation supporting your absence.
GET YOUR FIT NOTE AT DRSICK.CO.UK — same day, always available.
