In recent years, after the outbreak and spread of Covid-19 in the UK and across the world, the role of Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) became more important than ever in helping workers cope with illness-related income loss.
Even before the virus, SSP has always been a key entitlement for employees who are too sick to work. In this blog, you’ll learn what SSP is, who is eligible to claim it, and how much you can receive. Let’s explore everything in this quick post!
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Statutory Sick Pay (SSP)
Statutory sick pay is the minimum entitlement that UK employees receive if they’re too ill to work and are on leave for over four consecutive days (with the exception of coronavirus). Employers need to pay employees who’re off work due to sickness and qualify for SSP. Self-employed people are not eligible for this pay.
This pay is taken as taxable income and is subject to NICs (National Insurance Contributions).
Who is Eligible for SSP?
If you are an employee, you can apply for this pay, however, you must:
- Have an employment contract and have done some work under the contract
- Be sick for over four consecutive days (including non-working days)
- Give the correct notice
- Earn an average of at least £125 per week before tax
- Provide proof of illness after a week (7 days)
Those employees who have been paid less than 8 weeks are also eligible for SSP. If employees work for more than one job, they still qualify for this pay.
Note that employees who’re receiving statutory maternity, paternity or any other pay are not eligible for SSP.
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SSP and Coronavirus – What’s Changed?
Covid-related SSP rules and rebates are no longer in place. The temporary support schemes such as paying SSP from day one and the Coronavirus Statutory Sick Pay Rebate Scheme ended in 2022.
As of 2025, employees must now meet the usual SSP rules – Covid-19 is now treated like any other illness. This means you must still be off sick for at least 4 qualifying days to get SSP.
How Much Amount Employees Receive as SSP?
Your employer will pay SSP in the same ways as normal wages. It can be paid daily, weekly or monthly basis. And your employers will also deduct tax and NI from this pay.
If you are an employee, you are entitled to get £118.75 per week (up to 28 weeks), Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) by your employer, if you’re too ill to work. Your employer might pay more to cover the financial hardship of the employee who’s sick.
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Quick Sum Up
Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) is a key right for UK employees who are off work due to illness. As of 2025, the weekly rate has increased to £118.75, and you still need to meet the usual eligibility rules. Covid-related SSP rules no longer apply.
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Disclaimer: This post is intended for general information about the topic.
