Executive Summary - Statutory Sick Pay (SSP)

If you're an employee and unable to work because you're ill, you may be able to get Statutory Sick Pay (SSP). Some employers have their own sick pay scheme instead.

Who is eligible?
If you're working for an employer under a contract of service (even if you've only just started), you're entitled to Statutory Sick Pay if the following apply:

you're sick for at least four days in a row (weekends and bank holidays are included); and you're earning at least £90 a week on average

Who isn't eligible?
You can't get Statutory Sick Pay if you're away from work because any of the following apply:

you're taking part in trade union action
you're in legal custody
you've been getting Incapacity Benefit in the eight weeks before your illness
You can't claim Statutory Sick Pay for any period of illness that starts during the same time you're entitled to Statutory Maternity Pay or Maternity Allowance.

For more information visit: http://www.direct.gov.uk