Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) Explained: How Much and How Long

What is Statutory Sick Pay?

Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) is the legal minimum your employer must pay if you are too ill to work and you qualify. Many employers offer more generous contractual sick pay, but SSP is the floor.

It is paid by your employer in the same way as wages, with tax and National Insurance deducted as normal.

Who qualifies?

To get SSP you generally need to be classed as an employee, have been off sick for at least four days in a row (including non-working days), and earn at least the lower earnings limit on average.

You must tell your employer you are sick within their deadline. For absences over seven days, employers can ask for a fit note from a healthcare professional.

• You are an employee who has done some work for your employer.
• You are sick for 4 or more consecutive days (a 'period of incapacity for work').
• You earn at least the lower earnings limit on average.

Waiting days

SSP is not usually paid for the first three 'qualifying days' you are off — these are called waiting days. Payment normally starts from the fourth day of sickness.

If you have linked periods of sickness close together, the waiting days may not apply a second time.

How much and how long

SSP is paid at a flat weekly rate set by the government, regardless of your normal wage, which is why it can be much less than your usual pay. It can be paid for up to 28 weeks.

Because it is a flat rate, budgeting matters during sickness. Our SSP Calculator estimates your entitlement and weekly pay using current rates.

If SSP isn't enough

If you do not qualify for SSP, or it runs out, you may be able to claim Universal Credit or Employment and Support Allowance depending on your circumstances.

Check your contract too — many employers pay enhanced 'occupational' sick pay above SSP for a period.