What is a Fit Note (Doctor’s Note)?
A fit note – sometimes called a “doctor’s note” or a “Statement of Fitness for Work” – is an official document issued by a GP or hospital doctor in the UK. It provides medical evidence about your ability to work if you have been off sick for more than seven consecutive calendar days (including non-working days). Fit notes are governed by the Social Security (Medical Evidence) Regulations 1976 and are a crucial part of the process for managing sickness absence at work.
What does a fit note include?
The fit note states whether your doctor believes you are “not fit for work” or “may be fit for work” with certain adjustments, such as a phased return, amended duties, or altered hours. It will also specify the duration of your sickness and may include advice for your employer on how to support your return. Employers require this note as evidence to authorise sick leave and to process Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) or company sick pay.
Fit note vs self-certification
For the first seven days of sickness absence, you do not need a fit note. Instead, you can usually self-certify your illness by informing your employer and, if required, completing a self-certification form. This is a simpler process and does not require a visit to your doctor. To understand the key differences and when each is appropriate, see our guide on Self-Certification for Sickness. For practical templates and further explanation, you can also view our Sick Self-Certification Form Template.
Purpose and legal importance
The main role of a fit note is to provide an impartial, professional opinion on your fitness for work. It helps employers make informed decisions about your sick pay and any workplace adjustments you may need. You cannot be asked for a fit note before you have been off sick for more than seven days, but after that, your employer can require one as a condition for ongoing sick pay. If you’re an employer or employee wanting to see what a fit note looks like, you can find examples and downloadable templates at 5+ Fit Note Templates in PDF | DOC.
Fit notes are a key part of managing sickness absence fairly and legally in the workplace, ensuring both employees’ rights and employers’ responsibilities are upheld.
When Do You Need to Provide a Fit Note?
When Do You Need to Provide a Fit Note?
In the UK, you are generally required to provide a fit note (sometimes called a "doctor’s note" or "Statement of Fitness for Work") if you have been off work due to illness for more than 7 calendar days in a row. This includes weekends and bank holidays. For the first 7 days of sickness, you can usually self-certify – meaning you inform your employer of your illness and complete a self-certification form. After this period, your employer can legally ask for medical evidence, usually in the form of a fit note from a GP or other healthcare professional.
How to Obtain a Fit Note
To get a fit note, make an appointment with your GP, hospital doctor, or another qualified healthcare professional. They will assess your health and, if appropriate, issue a fit note stating whether you are "not fit for work" or "may be fit for work" with certain adjustments. The fit note will include dates covering the period of illness and any recommendations for workplace adjustments. For more detailed guidance on the process and what to expect, you can refer to the official GOV.UK fit note guidance.
What If You Can’t Get a Fit Note Immediately?
If you are unable to see a doctor straight away – for example, if appointments are delayed – let your employer know as soon as possible. Explain the situation and provide an estimated date for when you can supply the fit note. Most employers will understand if you communicate clearly and promptly. In the meantime, continue to follow your employer’s sickness reporting procedures and keep records of your attempts to obtain a fit note.
Employer Requirements and Policies
Employers may have their own policies about when and how to provide medical evidence for sickness absence, but they cannot require a fit note for absences of 7 days or less. After 7 days, they are entitled to request a fit note before paying statutory sick pay (SSP) or company sick pay. If you’re unsure about your workplace’s rules, check your employment contract or staff handbook. For a broader overview of your rights and responsibilities around sickness absence, see our guide on Sick Leave and Sick Pay: Your Rights and Entitlements in the UK.
If you want to understand the difference between self-certification and fit notes, or need a template for self-certifying your illness, visit our Sick Self-Certification Form Template page for further information and practical resources.
What Information Does a Fit Note Include?
A fit note, sometimes called a "doctor’s note" or "Statement of Fitness for Work," is an official document issued by a GP or hospital doctor. It is used to provide evidence to your employer about your health and your ability to work. Understanding what information a fit note includes can help both employees and employers manage sickness absence effectively.
Key details on a fit note typically include:
- Employee’s name and date of assessment: This confirms who the note refers to and when the doctor assessed them.
- Doctor’s details: The name, signature, and professional address of the doctor issuing the note are included, ensuring its validity.
- Dates covering the period of unfitness for work: The fit note will state when the employee’s sickness started and how long they are likely to be unfit for work. This helps employers track absence and plan cover.
- Advice on work capability: The doctor will indicate either:
- The employee is "not fit for work," or
- The employee "may be fit for work" if certain adjustments are made (such as reduced hours, amended duties, or workplace adaptations).
Further comments and recommendations: If the doctor feels the employee could return to work with support, they may suggest practical changes or adjustments, helping employers consider reasonable accommodations under the Equality Act 2010.
How employers can use this information:
Employers should review the advice given on the fit note and consider whether adjustments can be made to support the employee’s return to work. For example, if the fit note suggests lighter duties or flexible hours, discussing these options can help employees get back to work sooner and reduce long-term absence. The fit note also helps employers meet their legal obligations to consider reasonable adjustments for disabled employees.
It’s important to note that a fit note is only required after seven consecutive days of sickness absence. For shorter absences, you may only need to provide a self-certification. To understand the difference between self-certification and fit notes, and to access a template, see our Sick Self-Certification Form Template.
By understanding what a fit note includes, both employers and employees can ensure the right support is in place and that legal requirements are met.
How Does a Fit Note Affect Your Sick Leave and Pay?
When you are off work due to illness, a fit note (sometimes called a "doctor’s note" or "sick note") plays a crucial role in determining your entitlement to sick leave and pay. Understanding how fit notes interact with your rights – and what happens if you don’t provide one – can help you avoid issues with your employer and ensure you receive the support you’re entitled to.
How Fit Notes Affect Your Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) and Employer Sick Pay
In the UK, Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) is available to eligible employees who are too ill to work. According to the Social Security Contributions and Benefits Act 1992, you usually need to provide evidence of your illness if you’re off work for more than 7 consecutive days (including non-working days). This evidence is typically a fit note, issued by a GP or hospital doctor.
- Statutory Sick Pay: Employers can ask for a fit note after 7 days of sickness absence. If you don’t provide one when requested, your employer is legally allowed to withhold SSP until you do. For more on who qualifies, see Eligibility for Statutory Sick Pay.
- Employer Sick Pay Schemes: Many employers offer contractual sick pay schemes that may require a fit note from an earlier date. Check your employment contract or staff handbook for details, as the rules may be stricter than the SSP minimum.
Importance of Providing Fit Notes on Time
Timely submission of a fit note is essential to avoid delays or disputes over your sick pay. If you fail to provide a fit note when required:
- Your employer can refuse to pay SSP or contractual sick pay for the period not covered by a valid fit note.
- Delays in providing a fit note may result in gaps in your pay, which can be difficult to recover later.
If your illness lasts longer than initially expected, you must obtain a new fit note to cover the extended period. For more on how long SSP can last and what to do if your illness continues, see Statutory Sick Pay Duration and Extensions.
Fit Notes and Eligibility for Sick Pay
A fit note alone doesn’t guarantee sick pay – you must also meet other eligibility criteria set by law. For example, you need to earn at least the Lower Earnings Limit and have informed your employer according to their absence policy. The fit note is a key piece of evidence, but your entitlement also depends on these additional factors. For practical advice on calculating your payments, see Calculating Your Statutory Sick Pay.
What If You Don’t Provide a Fit Note?
If you don’t provide a fit note when requested (after 7 days’ absence), your employer can lawfully withhold sick pay until you do. This is because the fit note is the official confirmation of your inability to work. If you’re off for 7 days or less, you can usually self-certify your sickness – learn more about this process with our Sick Self-Certification Form Template.
Further Guidance and Official Resources
For comprehensive details on SSP, including eligibility, requirements, and how fit notes fit into the process, refer to the official government guidance: Statutory Sick Pay (SSP): Overview – GOV.UK.
By understanding your responsibilities around fit notes, you can help ensure your sick leave and pay are handled smoothly and in accordance with UK employment law.
Your Responsibilities When You Are Sick
When you are unwell and need to take time off work, it’s important to understand your responsibilities as an employee. Following the correct steps not only helps your employer manage your absence but also ensures you receive any sick pay or other entitlements you’re due.
Notifying Your Employer
As soon as you realise you are too ill to work, you should inform your employer. Most workplaces require you to notify them as early as possible, usually before your normal start time or within a set period (for example, within one hour of your shift starting). Check your company’s sickness absence policy for the exact process – this is often found in your employment contract or staff handbook.
You’ll usually need to explain:
- The nature of your illness (a brief description is enough; you don’t have to share detailed medical information).
- How long you expect to be off work, if known.
Providing a Fit Note
If you’re off sick for more than 7 calendar days (including weekends and non-working days), you must provide your employer with a fit note from your GP or hospital doctor. This is sometimes called a “doctor’s note.” Make sure to give this to your employer promptly, as delays can affect your right to statutory sick pay or company sick pay.
For absences of 7 days or less, you can usually self-certify your illness. If you’re unsure about the difference between self-certification and fit notes, or need a template, see our guide on the Sick Self-Certification Form Template.
Keeping Your Employer Updated
If your condition changes – for example, if you recover sooner than expected or need more time off – let your employer know as soon as possible. You may need to provide an updated fit note if your absence is extended.
Understanding Your Employment Contract and Company Policies
Your employment contract and your employer’s sickness absence policy set out your specific obligations, such as how to report your absence and whether you’re entitled to additional company sick pay. If you’re unsure what your contract says, you have the right to request a copy. Our guide on UK Workers: How to Request Your Employment Contract explains how to do this.
Legal Rights and Protections
Your rights around sick leave and fit notes are protected by law, including the Employment Rights Act 1996. This legislation sets out your entitlement to statutory sick pay and the process for giving evidence of incapacity for work. If you follow your employer’s procedures and the law, you cannot be dismissed or treated unfairly simply for being off sick.
By understanding and meeting your responsibilities, you help protect your rights and maintain a good relationship with your employer during your illness.
Fit Notes and Mental Health Conditions
When you’re unable to work due to a mental health condition – such as depression, anxiety, or stress – a fit note from your doctor can be just as important as one for a physical illness. Under UK law, fit notes (sometimes called “doctor’s notes” or “sick notes”) cover any health issue that affects your ability to do your job, including mental health conditions.
How Fit Notes Address Mental Health
If your mental health is impacting your work, your GP or healthcare professional can issue a fit note after assessing your condition. The note may state that you are “not fit for work” or “may be fit for work” if certain adjustments are made. For example, a doctor might recommend:
- Reduced hours or a phased return to work
- Temporary changes in duties or workload
- Flexible working arrangements
- Support with managing stress or anxiety at work
These recommendations are designed to help you recover while remaining in, or returning to, work safely. If your fit note suggests adjustments, your employer should consider them seriously under the Equality Act 2010, which protects employees with disabilities – including long-term mental health conditions – from discrimination.
To learn more about how to request changes at work based on your doctor’s advice, see our guide on How to Ask for Reasonable Adjustments at Work.
The Importance of Open Communication
Talking to your employer about your mental health can feel daunting, but open and honest communication is often the first step towards getting the support you need. You don’t have to share specific medical details, but letting your employer know about your fit note and any recommended adjustments helps them understand how they can support you.
If you’re unsure about your rights or how to approach the conversation, you might find it helpful to read Mental Health and Work: Your Rights, which explains your legal protections and what support you can expect at work.
Legal Protections and Support
Employers have a legal duty to consider reasonable adjustments for employees with disabilities, including mental health conditions that have a substantial and long-term effect on your ability to do normal daily activities. If your employer fails to make reasonable adjustments recommended in your fit note, this could be considered discrimination under the Equality Act 2010.
For official guidance on supporting mental health in the workplace and understanding your legal rights, see Mental health and the law – Supporting mental health at work – Acas.
Practical Steps and Further Advice
If your absence is short (seven calendar days or less), you may be able to self-certify your sickness. For longer periods or if your employer requests it, a fit note is required. To understand the difference between self-certification and fit notes, and when each is appropriate, see our Sick Self-Certification Form Template.
Remember, you are not alone. Many people experience mental health challenges at work, and there is support available – both from your employer and external organisations. Taking the step to get a fit note for a mental health condition is a positive action towards protecting your health and your rights at work.
Common Questions About Fit Notes
Common Questions About Fit Notes
Fit notes – sometimes called “doctor’s notes” or “sick notes” – can raise a lot of questions for both employees and employers. Here, we address some of the most common concerns about fit notes, your rights, and what to do in tricky situations.
Can an Employer Refuse a Fit Note?
Generally, employers in the UK are expected to accept a valid fit note from a doctor as evidence of your inability to work due to illness or injury. Fit notes are official documents, usually issued after seven days of sickness (for the first seven days, you can self-certify). If your employer doubts the authenticity or content of a fit note, they may ask for clarification or seek advice from an occupational health specialist, but they cannot simply refuse a genuine fit note without good reason. If you’re unsure about the difference between self-certification and fit notes, see our guide on the Sick Self-Certification Form Template.
What If You Disagree with the Doctor’s Assessment?
If you believe the doctor’s assessment on your fit note is incorrect – perhaps they’ve said you’re fit for work when you feel unable, or vice versa – you have a few options. You can discuss your concerns with your GP and request a reassessment. If you’re still unhappy, you may seek a second opinion from another doctor. However, employers are entitled to rely on the fit note as presented. If you feel pressured to return to work before you’re ready, consider seeking advice from a union, HR department, or an employment adviser.
Can You Get a Fit Note for Short-Term Illness?
For illnesses lasting seven days or less, you usually do not need a fit note. Instead, you can self-certify your sickness to your employer. Only if your illness lasts more than seven calendar days (including non-working days) will you need to provide a fit note. For more on how short-term sickness interacts with annual leave, see our comparison of Sick Leave vs Annual Leave.
How to Handle Fit Notes if You Are Self-Employed or on Zero-Hours Contracts
If you’re self-employed, you do not need to provide a fit note to an employer, but you may need one to claim certain benefits, such as Employment and Support Allowance (ESA). For those on zero-hours contracts, your rights are similar to regular employees: you should provide a fit note to your employer if your sickness lasts more than seven days, and you may be eligible for Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) if you meet the qualifying criteria (such as earning at least the Lower Earnings Limit).
How Fit Notes Relate to Holiday Entitlement During Sickness
If you fall ill while on holiday, you have the right to take your statutory holiday at a later date, provided you can provide evidence of your illness (such as a fit note). This can be especially important if your employer has previously declined your holiday request and you subsequently become unwell – learn more about your rights in these situations in our guide on Calling in Sick on a Declined Holiday. For long-term sickness, your entitlement to holiday pay may be affected, and you can find detailed information in our section on Holiday Pay Entitlement During Long-Term Sickness.
Understanding your rights and responsibilities around fit notes can help ensure fair treatment at work and protect your entitlement to sick leave, pay, and holidays. If you’re ever unsure, seek advice from your GP, employer, or a legal adviser.
Additional Employee Benefits and Support
When you’re off work due to illness, your rights and support often go beyond just statutory sick pay (SSP). Many employers offer additional benefits to help employees during periods of sickness absence. These can include enhanced sick pay, access to occupational health services, employee assistance programmes, and support for workplace adjustments. It’s important to check your employment contract or staff handbook to see what extra support your employer may provide.
Enhanced sick pay is a common benefit, where employers pay more than the statutory minimum. For example, some may offer full pay for a set period before reverting to SSP. Other benefits might include private medical insurance, counselling services, or phased return-to-work arrangements.
If you’re unsure about your entitlements, start by reviewing your employer’s policies or speaking to your HR department. You can also find more detailed information on employee benefits related to health and sickness, including eligibility and how to access them.
Fit notes (also known as ‘sick notes’ or ‘doctor’s notes’) can play a crucial role if you need to claim additional benefits – especially if your illness is long-term or affects your ability to work. For instance, if you’re off sick for more than seven days, a fit note from your GP will be required to continue receiving SSP. Fit notes are also often needed when applying for benefits such as Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) or Universal Credit due to illness or disability. The fit note provides evidence of your health condition and may include advice about adjustments that could help you return to work safely.
For a broader look at how employers manage sickness absence and the benefits connected to attendance, you might find it useful to read about employee benefits related to attendance. This can help you understand your rights and the support available if your health affects your ability to work.
Remember, the law protects your right to fair treatment during sickness absence. The Equality Act 2010 may also apply if your illness is considered a disability, giving you additional rights to reasonable adjustments at work. Always seek advice if you’re unsure about your entitlements or the support available to you.
