Worried about missing work due to illness? You’re not alone—and knowing what you’re actually entitled to can ease a lot of stress. This guide breaks down Statutory Sick Pay (SSP): who qualifies, how much you can get, how to claim it, and what to do if you don’t meet the requirement.
What is Statutory Sick Pay (SSP)?
Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) is a government-mandated payment that employers in the UK must provide to eligible employees who are too ill to work. It’s important to note that the SSP is the legal minimum amount employers must pay to an eligible employee. Many employers may also offer additional support through contractual sick pay, which serves as a basic financial support mechanism during periods of sickness absence and short-term illness.
Key facts about SSP:
- Eligibility: You must be classed as an employee, earn at least £125 per week (as of 2024), and have been off sick for at least 4 consecutive days (including non-working days) to be eligible for Lower Earnings Limit (LEL) benefits.
- Amount: £116.75 per week (2024–25 rate), paid by your employer for up to 28 weeks.
- Payment: Paid in the same way as your normal wages (e.g., weekly or monthly) and is subject to tax and National Insurance.
- Evidence: A fit note from a GP may be required after 7 days of sickness.
Employers cannot pay less than the statutory rate, but may offer more through a company sick pay scheme.
What Is The Eligibility Criteria for SSP?
To qualify for Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) in the UK, you must meet the following criteria:
1. Employment Status
You must be classed as an employee and have done some work for your employer. This includes full-time, part-time, agency, and zero-hours contract workers, as long as you meet the other conditions.
2. Earnings Threshold
You must earn at least £125 per week (before tax) on average, calculated over the 8 weeks before your sickness, to qualify—this ensures your earnings meet the minimum threshold for Statutory Sick Pay eligibility.
3. Length of Sickness
You must have been off work for at least 4 consecutive days (including non-working days), known as “qualifying days,” to demonstrate a continuous period of illness that meets the minimum requirement for Statutory Sick Pay.
4. Notification
You need to inform your employer of your illness within 7 days, or earlier if your employment contract requires it. Failing to do so may result in losing your SSP entitlement.
5. Proof of Illness
You’re not required to provide a fit note (sick note) for the first 7 days. After that, your employer can request medical evidence, typically in the form of a fit note from a GP.
6. Exclusions
You won’t be eligible if:
- You’re already receiving Statutory Maternity Pay or Maternity Allowance
- You’ve already received SSP for 28 weeks and are still off sick
- You’re self-employed
- You were in legal custody on the first day of illness
Understanding whether you qualify is essential to ensure you receive the financial support you’re entitled to during illness.
How To Calculate Your SSP?
Knowing how much Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) you’re entitled to can help you plan financially while you’re off work due to illness. Although SSP is paid at a fixed weekly rate, the exact amount you receive depends on how many days you’re off and how many days you normally work. Here’s a simple breakdown to help you calculate your SSP step by step.
1. Determine the Daily SSP Rate
The standard Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) weekly rate for April 2024–25 is £116.75. To calculate your daily rate, divide this amount by the number of qualifying days of sickness absence you work in a week, which refers to the number of days you normally work. Qualifying days are the days you normally work.
Example:
If you work 5 days a week:
£116.75 ÷ 5 = £23.35 per day
2. Count the Number of Qualifying Sick Days
SSP is only paid for the days you normally work, including Monday and Friday, and it begins on the fourth qualifying day of sickness. The first 3 days are called “waiting days” and are unpaid—unless you’ve had a linked sickness within the past 8 weeks, so it’s a good idea to plan accordingly.
3. Multiply the Daily Rate by the Number of Paid Sick Days
After the initial 3 unpaid waiting days, you can start receiving SSP. Multiply the number of paid sick days by your daily rate to get your total SSP.
Example:
You’re sick for 7 working days and work 5 days a week:
- First 3 days = unpaid
- Next 4 days = 4 × £23.35 = £93.40 SSP
How to Apply for SSP?
Applying for Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) is usually a straightforward process handled directly through your employer. Here’s what you need to do:
1. Inform Your Employer
You must tell your employer that you’re sick within 7 days of your illness starting, or sooner if your employment contract requires it. The sooner you notify them, the sooner your SSP can begin.
2. Provide Evidence of Illness
You don’t need a doctor’s note (fit note) for the first 7 calendar days of sickness. However, if you’re off for more than 7 days, your employer may ask for a fit note from your GP or other medical professional.
3. Check Your Eligibility
Your employer is responsible for confirming whether you meet the eligibility criteria (such as earnings threshold and number of qualifying days off, like Thursday). If you’re not eligible, they must give you a written explanation using form SSP1, which could be communicated via email.
4. Receive Payment
If you’re eligible, your SSP will be paid in the same way as your normal wages (e.g. weekly or monthly), and it’s subject to tax and National Insurance deductions.
If your employer refuses to pay SSP and you believe you’re eligible, you can contact HMRC for further advice.
Also read: What is Payroll? A Complete Guide for Smooth Payouts
What Are the Situations Affecting SSP?
Several factors can impact whether you receive Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) or how much you get. These situations can either make you ineligible or affect the timing and amount of your payments. Here’s a table to help you better understand it.
| Situation | How It Affects SSP |
|---|
| Earnings below £123/week (2024–25 threshold) | Not eligible for SSP, as minimum earnings criteria are not met. |
| Not classified as an employee | SSP only applies to employees; self-employed workers aren’t eligible. |
| On maternity, paternity, or adoption leave | You may be entitled to other statutory payments instead of SSP. |
| Already receiving Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) | SSP usually not payable alongside ESA. |
| Too many linked periods of sickness (over 3 years) | If you’re off sick repeatedly, SSP may end after 28 weeks of payment. |
| Late sickness notification to employer | SSP may be delayed or denied if you don’t inform your employer within 7 days. |
| Working abroad | May affect eligibility depending on your employer’s location and tax status. |
| Zero-hours or irregular contract | You might qualify, but eligibility depends on average weekly earnings and contract. |
| Quitting or being dismissed while sick | SSP may continue for a limited time if you were already receiving it before leaving. |
| Receiving company sick pay | SSP may still apply, but it could be topped up or replaced by contractual benefits. |
Also read: How to do your own payroll if you’re self-employed — a helpful guide for those managing finances independently.
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Conclusion
Knowing your entitlement to SSP is essential for maintaining financial stability when you’re unwell. This guide provides an in-depth look at SSP—covering eligibility, how it’s calculated, the application process, and factors that can affect your pay. Knowing your rights and obligations ensures you’re prepared to take action if any issues arise. Always consult with your employer, review your employment contract, and refer to official government resources to stay up-to-date with SSP rules. Health is wealth, and having SSP to fall back on during tough times ensures you can focus on getting better with peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can SSP be denied and what are my options?
Yes, SSP can be denied if you do not meet the eligibility criteria. In such cases, you can claim benefits such as ‘new style’ Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) or Universal Credit by January deadlines. Always ask your employer for a written reason for denial, usually through an SSP1 form.
How long does it take to process SSP claims?
The duration to process records of SSP claims can vary. Usually, if found eligible, your SSP will be paid by your employer in the regular payday via the same method. If any dispute arises, contacting HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC)’s Statutory Payment Dispute Team could help expedite the process.
Can you receive SSP if you work multiple jobs?
Yes, if you hold multiple jobs where you earn enough, you can claim SSP from each employer. Consider each job independently for SSP, even if you’re unable to perform one job due to illness but are capable of doing the other.
Does SSP still apply if you’re on a zero-hours contract?
Absolutely, employees on a zero-hours contract and agency workers can still claim SSP provided they have done some work under the contract. However, their eligibility would still be contingent on meeting the earnings threshold and other common criteria.
