So You're Saying There's a Chance I Get Paid to Procrastinate in My PJs? A Guide to Sick Pay in England
Let's face it, faking sick to avoid that mind-numbing spreadsheet or a never-ending meeting holds a certain undeniable allure. But what if I told you there's a way to get paid to rest up when you're actually under the weather? Yes, my friends, we delve into the glorious world of Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) in England!
 |
| How Much Is Sick Pay In England |
But First, a Reality Check (Sorry!)
Hold your horses (or should I say, hold those tissues?). SSP isn't exactly a golden ticket to a five-star sick leave vacation. There are some hoops to jump through, like:
- The Waiting Game: You won't get paid for the first three days you're off. Consider it your body's time to truly assess the situation.
- The Earning Threshold: You gotta be earning at least an average of £123 per week to qualify. So, freelance napping enthusiasts, this one might be a miss.
- The Proof is in the Pudding (or the Prescription): You'll need a doctor's note if you're off for more than seven days. Sorry, no "I woke up feeling a bit blah" excuses here.
Alright, Alright, How Much is the Actual Pay Then?
Now for the good stuff! If you meet the eligibility criteria, you'll be chuffed to know the current SSP rate is a cool £116.75 per week. It's not a king's ransom, but hey, it's better than nothing, right?
Top Tip: This is the minimum amount mandated by law. Some fantastic employers offer more generous sick pay schemes, so check your contract for happy surprises!
QuickTip: Skim fast, then return for detail.
But Wait, There's More! (Because Let's Be Honest, Who Wants Less?)
- The Time Limit: You can claim SSP for up to a maximum of 28 weeks. After that, you might be entitled to Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), but that's a whole other story for another day.
- The Lowdown on Self-Isolation: If you're self-isolating due to COVID-19, the rules are slightly different. You might be eligible for other support schemes, so check with the government for the latest info.
Remember: SSP is there to help you recover, not become a professional sick-leaver. Don't abuse the system, use it wisely!
FAQ: Sick Pay Edition (For the Particularly Lazy Readers)
How to claim SSP?
Inform your employer you're sick and provide a doctor's note if needed. They'll handle the rest.
Tip: Read mindfully — avoid distractions.
How long does it take to get SSP?
 |
It depends on your employer's payroll cycle, but generally within a few weeks.
What if my employer doesn't pay SSP?
Tip: A slow skim is better than a rushed read.
There are procedures to complain! Contact the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service (ACAS).
How do I know if I qualify for SSP?
Check the government website (https://www.gov.uk/statutory-sick-pay) or reach out to ACAS for guidance.
Tip: Focus on one point at a time.
How can I prepare for getting sick?
Stock up on essentials (Lemsip, tissues, funny movies!), and most importantly, stay healthy!
 |
💡 This page may contain affiliate links — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
