What SSP is
Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) is the legal minimum sick pay your employer must pay you. From 6 April 2025 the weekly rate is £118.75. It is paid in the same way as your normal pay (with tax + NI deductions).
Eligibility
You're entitled if you:
- Are classed as an employee
- Earn at least the Lower Earnings Limit (£125/week, 2025/26)
- Have been sick for at least 4 consecutive days (including non-working days)
- Tell the employer within their notification deadline (usually 7 days)
Waiting days
The first 3 qualifying days of any sickness period are unpaid "waiting days". SSP starts on day 4. Linked sickness within 8 weeks doesn't restart the waiting days.
How long
Up to 28 weeks of SSP per qualifying period of incapacity for work (PIW). After that you may move to Employment and Support Allowance or Universal Credit.
Self-certification + fit notes
- Days 1-7: you can self-certify (no doctor needed).
- From day 8: you need a fit note (Med 3) from a GP or other approved professional.
Contractual sick pay
Many contracts pay more than SSP — full pay for X weeks, then half pay for Y weeks, etc. Read your contract. The contractual scheme includes SSP (not on top of).
Discrimination + dismissal
Dismissal for sickness can be capability-related (potentially fair if a fair process is followed). If the sickness relates to a disability, the employer has a duty to make reasonable adjustments before considering dismissal.