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Statutory Sick Pay explained

The weekly rate, who qualifies and what to do if sick pay is not enough.

The short answer

Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) is paid by your employer when you are too ill to work. For 2026/27 it is £123.25 a week, or 80% of your normal weekly earnings if that is lower, for up to 28 weeks. It is paid from the first day you are off sick.

Who gets it

  • You must be classed as an employee and have been ill for at least one full working day.
  • You must tell your employer in time. Check your contract for their deadline, or tell them within 7 days if they have not set one.
  • You need a fit note from a doctor if you are off for more than 7 days in a row.
  • You do not qualify once you have had the maximum 28 weeks, or if you are getting Statutory Maternity Pay.

How much you get

SSP is the lower of £123.25 a week and 80% of your normal weekly earnings. For example, if you normally earn £200 a week, 80% is £160, so you would get the flat rate of £123.25. If you normally earn £120 a week, 80% is £96, so you would get £96. SSP is taxable and National Insurance is deducted, like pay.

Good to know

  • Your employer may pay more than SSP under your contract, which is called occupational sick pay. Check your contract or staff handbook.
  • Some people are not eligible, such as the self-employed. If you cannot get SSP, you may be able to claim Universal Credit or New Style Employment and Support Allowance.
  • If your employer refuses to pay SSP and you think you are entitled, you can ask HMRC to look into it.
  • If sick pay leaves you short, see the cost of living help guide and use the budget helper to plan for a drop in income.

Where to learn more

This guide is for information only and is not benefits, employment or legal advice. Rules and amounts can change, so check the official pages before you rely on them.

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