Question 1

How much is Statutory Sick Pay in 2026/27?

Accepted Answer

The SSP rate is £123.25 per week in 2026/27  -  paid for the days you normally work (qualifying days). The daily rate depends on how many days a week you work: £123.25 ÷ 5 days = £24.65/day for a standard 5-day week worker.

Question 2

Are there waiting days for SSP in 2026/27?

Accepted Answer

No. The three unpaid waiting days were abolished from 6 April 2026. SSP is now paid from the first qualifying day of sickness, so if you are off sick for a full week you receive five days of SSP rather than two. This is a significant change from previous years.

Question 3

Am I eligible for SSP?

Accepted Answer

To qualify for SSP you must be an employee (not self-employed) and have been sick for 4 or more consecutive days including non-working days such as weekends and bank holidays. From April 2026 the Lower Earnings Limit requirement was removed, so there is no minimum earnings threshold — even low earners and part-time workers qualify. Agency workers and zero-hours contract workers can also qualify.

Question 4

How long does SSP last?

Accepted Answer

SSP is paid for a maximum of 28 weeks. After that, your employer stops paying SSP and you may be able to claim New Style Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) from the DWP instead. Some employers offer enhanced sick pay beyond the 28 weeks  -  check your employment contract.

Question 5

Can I get SSP for just one or two days off sick?

Accepted Answer

No — you need to be sick for at least 4 consecutive days (including non-working days) to qualify. A Tuesday-to-Wednesday illness (2 days) does not qualify. A Monday-to-Thursday illness (4 days) does. Once you qualify, SSP is paid from the first qualifying day with no waiting days (from April 2026).

Question 6

Does my employer have to pay more than SSP?

Accepted Answer

No  -  the legal minimum is SSP. However, many employers offer enhanced sick pay (also called contractual sick pay) as part of their benefits package, especially in the public sector, larger companies and professional services. Your employment contract or staff handbook will state any enhanced entitlement. If your contract says nothing about sick pay beyond the statutory minimum, you only have the right to SSP.

Question 7

How do I tell my employer I am sick and claim SSP?

Accepted Answer

Notify your employer as soon as possible on your first day of absence, following whatever process your workplace requires (phone call, email, etc.). For absences up to 7 days, you self-certify  -  no GP fit note is needed. From day 8 onwards, your employer can request a fit note (previously called a sick note) from your GP or another healthcare professional. Keep your employer updated on your expected return date.

Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) Calculator UK 2026/27