How to Request Sick Pay

Important Update: UK sick pay regulations change significantly from April 2026. This guide reflects the new legislation that affects how you request and receive sick pay. Knowing these changes is crucial to ensuring you receive your full entitlements.


Read the full guide below or read the quick 60 Second Solution.


What is Statutory Sick Pay (SSP)?

Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) remains the minimum legal requirement. According to the latest GOV.UK guidance:

  • SSP rate is £118.75 per week
  • You must earn an average of at least £125 per week
  • SSP can be paid for up to 28 weeks in any period of sickness

Crucial change: The 3 waiting days for SSP have been removed entirely from April 2026. You will be entitled to SSP from your first qualifying day of sickness, provided you meet the eligibility criteria.

SSP eligibility criteria (2025):

  • You must be sick for at least 4 consecutive days (including non-working days)
  • You must earn at least the Lower Earnings Limit (£125/week average)
  • You must follow your employer's notification procedures
  • You must provide proof of illness when required

Company Sick Pay Schemes

Many employers offer Occupational Sick Pay schemes that exceed SSP requirements. Employers must clearly communicate any changes to their sick pay policies resulting from legislative updates. Always check your employment contract or updated staff handbook.


Step-by-Step: How to Request Sick Pay Under New Rules

1. Notify Your Employer Promptly (Updated Requirements)

Notification remains critical, but the removal of waiting days means proper reporting from day one is more important than ever. You should:

  • Inform your employer immediately on your first day of absence
  • Follow new company procedures that may have been updated for 2026 legislation
  • Provide written confirmation if required by your employer's policy

Digital-first approach: Many employers now require notification through specific HR portals or apps. Check if your workplace has implemented new digital systems for sickness reporting.


2. Understand New Employer Requirements

The 2026 changes mean some employers have updated their policies. You may now encounter:

  • Immediate SSP eligibility from day one (no 3-day wait)
  • Revised self-certification periods - some employers have shortened this due to immediate SSP entitlement
  • Updated fit note requirements - still required after 7 days of sickness

You can now obtain a fit note from a wider range of healthcare professionals, including physiotherapists, nurses, and occupational therapists, not just GPs.


3. Provide Proof Under New Framework

For absences up to 7 days: Your employer may require their own self-certification form or accept the standard GOV.UK form SC2.

For absences longer than 7 days: A fit note remains mandatory. The legislation hasn't changed this requirement, but the format may be digital.

Important: Your employer cannot request a fit note for the first 7 calendar days of sickness.


4. New Payment Structure and Timelines

Key change for 2026: SSP now starts from the first qualifying day of sickness, not the fourth day.

  • No more 3 unpaid waiting days
  • Payment calculations may differ if your employer runs payroll on specific dates

Key 2026 Takeaways for Employees

  1. No more waiting days - SSP starts from day one of qualifying sickness
  2. Check updated policies - Your employer may have changed notification procedures
  3. Document thoroughly - Keep records of sickness dates and all communications

Proactive steps:

  • Request a copy of your employer's updated sickness policy
  • Clarify notification procedures if unclear
  • Keep the ACAS helpline (0300 123 1100) saved for quick access to free advice

By understanding these legislative changes and following this updated guide, you can confidently navigate sick pay requests under the new UK rules. Always verify information against the latest government guidance as regulations may continue to evolve.


Last reviewed: 02/01/2026

Tap the button below for a summarised, step by step guide.

60 Second Solution

Step 1: Notify Immediately
Call or email your manager on your first sick day, before your shift starts. Follow your company's exact reporting rules.


Step 2: Know the Timeline & Rate

  • First 3 days: Usually unpaid under SSP (company scheme may pay).
  • Day 4 onward: Statutory Sick Pay (£118.75/week) starts.
    (Change coming April 2026: SSP starts from Day 1)

Step 3: Provide Proof

  • Days 1-7: Complete your employer's self-certification form if asked.
  • Day 8+: Get a fit note from your GP or healthcare professional.

Step 4: Follow Up
Keep records of your communication. If pay is wrong, check your contract, then contact ACAS (0300 123 1100) for free advice.

Key Reminder: Always check your employment contract first—your company's sick pay scheme may be better than the legal minimum.