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How to claim Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) in the UK

In short. SSP is £116.75 a week (2025/26; check live rate) paid by your employer for up to 28 weeks if you're off sick more than 3 days. You're entitled if you earn at least the Lower Earnings Limit (£123/week in 2025/26).

SSP is paid by your employer, taxed like wages and starts from the 4th 'qualifying day' (a day you'd normally work) you're off sick. The self-employed can't claim SSP — see 'New Style' ESA or Universal Credit instead.

Last reviewed:

·Estimated time: 30 min·Cost: Free

What you'll need

  • Your contract or details of normal working days
  • Proof of illness (a fit note from a doctor after 7 days)

The steps

  1. 01

    Tell your employer you're off sick

    Follow your employer's sickness policy. You generally must notify within 7 days (or whatever the contract says).

  2. 02

    Self-certify for the first 7 days

    Use the employer's self-certification form (or HMRC SC2) for absences of up to 7 calendar days. No fit note is needed in this window.

    Official link →

  3. 03

    Get a fit note after 7 days

    If sick more than 7 days (including weekends), provide a fit note from a doctor, nurse, pharmacist or other authorised healthcare professional.

    Official link →

  4. 04

    SSP starts on the 4th qualifying day

    The first 3 qualifying days are 'waiting days' (unpaid for SSP). From day 4, SSP is paid in the next normal pay run.

  5. 05

    If your employer refuses, escalate

    Ask them in writing for an SSP1 form explaining why. If you disagree, contact HMRC's Statutory Payment Disputes Team.

    Official link →

Common pitfalls

  • Some contracts pay more than SSP ('Occupational Sick Pay') — check your contract
  • If you earn under the Lower Earnings Limit you don't qualify for SSP
  • SSP can be paid by more than one employer if you have multiple jobs that each qualify

FAQ

I'm self-employed — what do I get instead?
Statutory Sick Pay is only for employees. The self-employed can apply for New Style ESA (contributions-based) or Universal Credit (means-tested) depending on circumstances.
How long does SSP last?
Up to 28 weeks per period of incapacity, after which you may need to claim ESA or Universal Credit.
Is SSP taxable?
Yes — it's paid through PAYE and treated like wages.
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