Living Abroad

Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) in the UK: Who Gets It and How Much

3 min read

In this guide
  1. Quick answer
  2. Who qualifies?
  3. What do you have to do?
  4. What are linked periods of sickness?
  5. Common mistakes
  6. FAQ
    1. What if the amount looks wrong?
    2. Do I need to be registered with a GP?
  7. Key takeaways
  8. Related guides
  9. Sources

Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) is the minimum sick pay UK employers must pay if you are too ill to work. If you have just started a job in the UK, it helps to know the rules before you need them. This guide uses the figures and conditions published on GOV.UK in October 2026.

Quick answer

  • You can get up to £123.25 a week, or 80% of your normal weekly earnings if that is lower.
  • It is paid by your employer for up to 28 weeks.
  • You must be an employee, have done some work for your employer and be ill for at least one full working day.
  • You need a fit note if you are off work for more than 7 days in a row.

Who qualifies?

You must be classed as an employee, have done some work for your employer and have been ill for at least one full working day. Agency workers may also be entitled. You do not qualify if you have already received the maximum 28 weeks or are getting Statutory Maternity Pay.

You still qualify if you started recently and have not yet received 8 weeks of pay. Your employer uses average weekly earnings over an 8-week period to work out your pay.

What do you have to do?

Step Rule
Tell your employer Before the deadline they set, or within 7 days if they set none
Fit note Needed if off work more than 7 days in a row, including non-working days
Who can issue it A GP or hospital doctor, registered nurse, occupational therapist or pharmacist

Telling your employer late can reduce your SSP.

What are linked periods of sickness?

Separate illnesses can count as one if each lasts more than one full working day and they are 8 weeks or less apart. You stop being eligible if a continuous series of linked periods lasts more than 3 years.

Common mistakes

  • Not telling the employer in time.
  • Expecting SSP to equal your wages. Your contract may give more, so check it.
  • Forgetting that tax and National Insurance are deducted.

FAQ

What if the amount looks wrong?

Talk to your employer first, then contact HMRC.

Do I need to be registered with a GP?

A fit note can come from several professionals, but registering helps. See how to register with a GP.

Key takeaways

  • Report sickness promptly.
  • Get a fit note after 7 days.
  • Check your contract for extra sick pay.

Last updated: October 2026. General information, not legal advice. Rates change each tax year, so confirm on GOV.UK.

Sources

  • GOV.UK: Statutory Sick Pay (SSP)

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