UK Sick Pay 2026
From 6 April 2026, Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) is payable from day one of illness at £123.25 per week. The three-day waiting period was abolished by the Employment Rights Act 2025, giving immediate protection to workers who fall ill.
Rates verified June 2026 · Source: Social Security Contributions and Benefits Act 1992, as amended by the Employment Rights Act 2025
Calculate your sick pay
Open SSP calculator →What changed in April 2026
| Rule | Before April 2026 | From April 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| Waiting days | 3 days (no pay) | None — day 1 |
| Weekly rate | £116.75 | £123.25 |
| Qualifying earnings | £123/week LEL | £125/week LEL |
| Duration | Up to 28 weeks | Up to 28 weeks |
Qualifying conditions
- You must be an employee (not a worker or self-employed)
- You must be off work sick for at least one day
- You must have average weekly earnings of at least £125 (the Lower Earnings Limit 2026/27)
- You must follow your employer's absence notification procedures (typically notifying by day 1 or day 7)
After 28 weeks: what happens next
If you are still unable to work after 28 weeks of SSP, your employer must give you an SSP1 form. You may be able to claim:
- Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) — if you do not get Universal Credit
- Universal Credit (UC) — the health element of UC can top up income during long-term illness
- Income Protection insurance — if your employer offers this as a benefit or you hold a personal policy
Fit notes and evidence of sickness
For the first 7 calendar days of absence, you can self-certify using a form your employer provides. From day 8, you typically need a Statement of Fitness for Work (fit note) from a GP, nurse, physiotherapist, occupational therapist, or pharmacist. Since July 2022, fit notes can be issued by a broader range of healthcare professionals, not just GPs.
Frequently asked questions
How much is Statutory Sick Pay in 2026?
SSP is £123.25 per week for the 2026/27 tax year. It is paid by your employer through the payroll in the same way as normal wages and is subject to income tax and National Insurance if you are above the relevant thresholds.
Are there waiting days before SSP starts?
No — the three waiting days were abolished by the Employment Rights Act 2025. From 6 April 2026, SSP is payable from day one of illness. Previously, the first three days of absence were 'waiting days' with no SSP entitlement.
How long does SSP last?
SSP is payable for up to 28 weeks in any period of incapacity for work (PIW). If you are still unable to work after 28 weeks, your employer will issue an SSP1 form and you may be able to claim Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) or Universal Credit.
Do I qualify for SSP?
You qualify if you earn at least £125/week (the Lower Earnings Limit for 2026/27), have been sick for at least one day, and are an employee. Workers and self-employed people do not qualify for SSP.
What is enhanced sick pay?
Enhanced sick pay is contractual sick pay offered by your employer above the SSP minimum. Many employers pay full salary for 3–6 months, then half salary for a further period. Check your employment contract or staff handbook for your specific entitlement.