Sick Pay Calculator
See how much you’ll be paid while off sick, under the new 2026 Statutory Sick Pay rules or your employer’s own scheme.
Your pay and time off
Before tax. For changing hours, use your average over the last 8 weeks.
You get the standard rate of £123.25 a week, paid from your first day off sick.
Sick pay is taxed through payroll like normal pay. You need a fit note from a doctor if you’re off for more than 7 days in a row.
What changed in April 2026
- Paid from day one: the three unpaid waiting days have gone.
- No minimum earnings: every employee can now get SSP.
- Rate: £123.25 a week, or 80% of your average weekly pay if that’s lower.
Worked example
On £28,000 a year, working 5 days a week, SSP is £123.25 a week or £24.65 a day. Ten working days off sick pays £246.50, compared with £1,076.92 of normal pay. On £7,800 a year (£150 a week), 80% of pay is £120, so that’s the weekly rate instead.
Having a baby instead? Use the maternity and paternity pay calculator.
Sources
Figures are checked against these official sources. Last reviewed 7 November 2026.
Common questions
How much is Statutory Sick Pay in 2026/27?
From 6 April 2026, SSP is £123.25 a week, or 80% of your average weekly earnings if that is lower. It is paid for up to 28 weeks.
Is SSP paid from the first day?
Yes. Since 6 April 2026 there are no unpaid waiting days, so SSP is paid from your first day off sick.
Do I need to earn a minimum amount to get SSP?
No. The minimum earnings rule was removed in April 2026, so all employees can get SSP. Lower earners get 80% of their usual weekly pay instead of the full rate.
How is the daily rate worked out?
The weekly rate is divided by the number of days you normally work in a week. If you work 5 days, each sick day is worth £24.65 at the standard rate.
Is sick pay taxed?
Yes. SSP and company sick pay go through payroll, so Income Tax and National Insurance are taken in the usual way.