If you're off work sick and worried about money, Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) exists to give you a financial safety net. Here's how it works.

WHAT IS STATUTORY SICK PAY?

SSP is the minimum amount your employer must pay you if you're off sick. As of April 2026, the weekly rate is £118.75, and it's payable for up to 28 weeks.

IMPORTANT CHANGE FROM APRIL 2026

From April 2026, SSP is payable from day one of illness. The previous system had a three-day waiting period — meaning you received nothing for the first three days of sick leave. That has now been abolished.

This is a significant change for lower-paid and part-time workers especially.

WHO IS ELIGIBLE FOR SSP?

To qualify for SSP you must:

● Be an employee (not self-employed or a contractor)

● Have been ill for at least 4 consecutive days (including weekends), or from day 1 under the new 2026 rules

● Earn at least £123 per week before tax (note: the lower earnings limit is also being removed from April 2026, making SSP available to more lower-paid workers)

DOES YOUR EMPLOYER HAVE TO PAY SSP?

Yes — if you meet the eligibility criteria, your employer is legally required to pay SSP. Some employers offer enhanced sick pay above the SSP level, so check your employment contract.

DO YOU NEED A SICK NOTE TO CLAIM SSP?

For the first 7 days, you self-certify — no sick note needed. After 7 days, your employer can ask for a fit note from a healthcare professional to continue SSP payments.

This is where Dr Sick can help. We issue same-day fit notes from GMC-registered UK doctors, delivered by email within 2 hours.

WHAT IF YOUR EMPLOYER REFUSES TO PAY SSP?

If you believe you're entitled to SSP and your employer won't pay, you can contact HMRC or seek advice from ACAS. You may also be entitled to claim Universal Credit if you cannot get SSP.

Need a fit note to support your SSP claim? Visit drsick.co.uk.