Adoption pay calculator
Estimate UK Statutory Adoption Pay across the 39-week period from your average weekly earnings.
Estimated total Statutory Adoption Pay (39 weeks)
- First 6 weeks (90% of pay)
- £540.00/wk
- Next 33 weeks
- £194.32/wk
- Total over 39 weeks
- £9,653
- Based on 2026/27 rates: 90% of pay for the first 6 weeks, then the lower of £194.32 or 90% of pay for 33 weeks.
- This assumes you meet the adoption pay employment, notice and matching conditions.
- This is a gross estimate; SAP is subject to tax and National Insurance.
How Statutory Adoption Pay is calculated
Statutory Adoption Pay follows the same payment shape as Statutory Maternity Pay. For the first six weeks, the statutory amount is 90% of your average weekly earnings. For the remaining 33 weeks, the weekly amount is capped at the lower of the statutory rate or 90% of your earnings.
The earnings threshold is the Lower Earnings Limit. You also normally need continuous employment by the matching week and must provide the required notice and evidence to your employer. This calculator checks the earnings arithmetic and totals the statutory gross amount.
Adoption policies can be enhanced by employers, so compare the statutory estimate with your contract or staff handbook before making financial plans.
Frequently asked questions
How much is Statutory Adoption Pay?
SAP is paid for up to 39 weeks: 90% of average weekly earnings for 6 weeks, then the lower of £194.32 a week or 90% of earnings for 33 weeks.
Do I qualify for Statutory Adoption Pay?
You normally need 26 weeks' continuous employment by the week you are matched with a child, average weekly earnings of at least £129, and the right notice and evidence.
Is adoption pay taxed?
Yes. Statutory Adoption Pay is paid through payroll and is subject to income tax and National Insurance.
Source: GOV.UK — Statutory Adoption Pay and Leave Rates effective 2026-04-06