Statutory Sick Pay

Payment for those employed but unable to work due to illness.

Group discussing available redeployment benefits

Statutory Sick Pay Explained

Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) is a benefit provided by employers in the UK to employees who are unable to work due to illness. It is a legal requirement for employers to pay SSP to eligible employees, ensuring they receive financial support during periods of sickness. To qualify, employees must be off work for at least four consecutive days and earn an average of at least £123 per week. SSP is paid at a standard rate, which is set by the government and may be subject to annual changes. It is typically paid for up to 28 weeks, providing a safety net for those unable to work due to health issues. Employers may offer additional sick pay through company policies, but SSP represents the minimum legal obligation. Understanding SSP is crucial for military leavers and veterans transitioning to civilian employment, ensuring they are aware of their rights and entitlements.

Who is eligible?

To be eligible for Statutory Sick Pay (SSP), employees must meet specific criteria. Firstly, they must be classified as an employee and have completed some work for their employer. They need to earn an average of at least £123 per week before tax. Additionally, they must have been off work due to illness for at least four consecutive days, including non-working days. SSP is not available to self-employed individuals or those who have already received the maximum 28 weeks of SSP. Employees who have recently left their job may still qualify if their illness began while they were employed. It's important for military leavers and veterans to understand these eligibility requirements to ensure they can access this financial support during times of illness, aiding their transition to civilian life.

What benefits does this provide?

Financial Support: Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) provides a basic level of financial support to employees who are unable to work due to illness. It ensures that individuals have some income during their period of sickness.

Eligibility: To qualify for SSP, employees must be off work for at least four consecutive days and earn an average of at least £123 per week. It is available for up to 28 weeks.

Employer Responsibility: Employers are required to pay SSP to eligible employees, ensuring that workers have access to this benefit without needing to apply for it separately.

Protection of Employment Rights: Receiving SSP does not affect an employee's statutory employment rights, such as the right to return to work after illness.

Consistency: SSP provides a standardized amount of pay, which is currently £109.40 per week, offering consistency across different employers and industries.

How do I apply?

Check Eligibility: Ensure you are an employee, have been ill for at least 4 days in a row, and earn an average of at least £123 per week.

Inform Your Employer: Notify your employer about your illness within their specified deadline, usually within 7 days.

Provide Evidence: Submit a doctor's note or self-certification form if required by your employer.

Understand Payment: Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) is £109.40 per week for up to 28 weeks.

Receive Payment: SSP is paid by your employer in the same way as your wages, e.g., weekly or monthly.

Dispute Resolution: If your employer refuses SSP, request a written explanation. You can appeal to HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) if necessary.

Additional Support: If SSP is insufficient, consider applying for Universal Credit or Employment and Support Allowance (ESA).

Download Redeployment Checklist

Summary

Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) is a vital financial safety net for employees in the UK, including military service leavers transitioning to civilian life. It ensures that those unable to work due to illness receive a basic income, helping maintain financial stability during recovery. To qualify, employees must earn at least £123 per week and be off work for at least four consecutive days. SSP is paid by employers at a standard rate of £109.40 per week for up to 28 weeks. Understanding SSP eligibility and rights is crucial for military leavers to ensure they can access this support. Employers are legally required to provide SSP, and it does not affect statutory employment rights. If SSP is insufficient, additional benefits like Universal Credit may be considered. This knowledge empowers military leavers to navigate their employment rights effectively during their transition.

Newsletter Signup

Statutory Sick Pay