What is statutory sick pay and who is entitled to it?
Employers' responsibilities to pay statutory sick pay to eligible employees, and where to get further information.
Statutory sick pay (SSP) provides a measure of earnings replacement for employees who are off work through illness. Employers must pay this to their employees who satisfy all the qualifying conditions.
You do not have to pay SSP to your employee if you pay wages or occupational (contractual) sick pay to your employee for the same days that they would be entitled to SSP if it is more than, or the same as, the current rate of SSP.
Qualifying conditions for SSP
You must pay SSP when all of the following conditions are met:
- classed as an employee
- have done some work for you
- have been ill for at least one full working day
Agency workers may be entitled to SSP.
Exceptions
Employees who do not qualify for SSP are those who:
- have received the maximum amount of SSP (28 weeks)
- are getting Statutory Maternity Pay
View sickness absences that start before and end on or after 6 April 2026.
Read an overview of statutory sick pay - GOV.UK guidance.
See Labour Relations Agency (LRA) advice on managing sickness absence.