Who qualifies for SSP now?

Everyone. The lower earnings limit was removed on 6 April 2026, so staff below the old threshold receive SSP at 80 per cent of their earnings.

Free tool · the new rules from 6 April 2026

Statutory sick pay calculator

Rates checked 18 August 2026

SSP changed on 6 April 2026: it is now payable from the first day of sickness, with no waiting days and no earnings threshold. Most calculators online are still showing the old rules.

Average weekly earnings (£) Days a week they normally work Working days off sick

What changed on 6 April 2026. No more three waiting days: SSP runs from the first full day off. No more lower earnings limit: everyone qualifies, with lower earners paid 80 per cent of their average weekly earnings instead of the flat rate. The odd single day off now costs money, which makes return to work conversations worth more, not less.

How it is worked out

The weekly rate is the lower of £123.25 or 80 per cent of the employee's average weekly earnings, worked out over the eight weeks before the sickness began. The weekly rate is divided by the days they normally work to give a daily rate, paid for each normal working day they are off, for up to 28 weeks. Company sick pay, where it exists, sits on top.

Quick answers

Is SSP still three waiting days? No. From 6 April 2026 statutory sick pay runs from the first full day of sickness. The waiting days are gone.

How much is SSP in 2026/27? The lower of £123.25 a week or 80 per cent of the employee's average weekly earnings, paid for up to 28 weeks.

Who qualifies now? Everyone. The lower earnings limit was removed, so staff who earn below the old threshold now receive SSP at 80 per cent of their earnings.

Does your sickness policy still say three waiting days?

Most handbooks written before 2026 do, and a policy that contradicts the law reads badly if it is ever examined. Send us yours and we will tell you, free, what needs changing.

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