Introduction
Are you struggling to understand your rights regarding Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) due to illness? This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the eligibility criteria, claiming process, and special situations related to SSP, ensuring you get the support you deserve. If you need assistance, Contend’s highly trained AI legal experts are here to provide you with guidance and help you resolve your legal issues. With Contend, you can access the easiest legal help in the UK.
If you’re unable to work due to illness, you may be entitled to Statutory Sick Pay (SSP). However, whether you qualify for it depends on a few factors, including your earnings and employment status. Here’s a straightforward guide to help you navigate the process of claiming sick pay.
What is Statutory Sick Pay (SSP)?
SSP is a government-mandated payment for employees who are off work due to illness. You won’t receive SSP for the first three days of your illness, but after that, you can get £116.75 a week for up to 28 weeks. If your employer offers additional sick pay, known as Contractual Sick Pay (CSP), you can receive both SSP and CSP at the same time.
Who is Eligible for SSP?
To qualify for SSP, you generally need to meet these criteria:
- You are employed and have started working for your employer.
- You are sick for at least four consecutive days, including your non-working days.
- You earn at least £123 a week before tax.
However, there are specific situations where you cannot claim SSP:
- If you are self-employed.
- If you have already received SSP for 28 weeks in the last eight weeks.
- If you were on Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) in the past 12 weeks.
- If you are in the armed forces or in legal custody.
- If you have an agricultural workers contract dated before October 1, 2013. Learn more about agricultural sick pay here.
Special Situations
Maternity Leave
If you are receiving Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP) or Maternity Allowance (MA), you cannot claim SSP. Additionally, if you are off work for a pregnancy-related illness, you won’t qualify for SSP during your first 18 weeks of maternity leave.
Part-Time and Agency Workers
If you earn at least £123 a week and your employer deducts tax and National Insurance from your pay, you may be eligible for SSP, regardless of whether you work full-time, part-time, or on a zero-hours contract.
Self-Isolation and Illness
While the government no longer mandates self-isolation for COVID-19, they still recommend it if you test positive. If you’re able to work, you won’t qualify for SSP just for self-isolating. However, if you are too ill to work, the standard SSP rules apply.
How to Claim Sick Pay
-
Check Your Contract: Review your employment contract or staff handbook for details on sick pay, including CSP.
-
Inform Your Employer: Notify your employer about your illness and request sick pay. If they deny your claim, ask for a written explanation using the SSP1 form.
- Dispute Resolution: If you believe your employer is wrong about your eligibility for SSP, you can challenge their decision. Contact HMRC’s Statutory Payment Dispute Team for assistance.
Contacting HMRC
If you need to discuss your claim, you can reach HMRC at:
- Phone: 0300 322 9422
- Textphone: 0300 200 3212
Make sure to have your personal information and details about your employment ready when you call.
Additional Benefits and Support
If your income is reduced due to illness, you may qualify for other financial support, such as Universal Credit or Attendance Allowance. You can also claim a tax refund if you believe you’ve overpaid taxes while on sick leave.
Resources for Further Help
- Check your eligibility for Universal Credit.
- Learn how to claim a tax refund.
- If you’re struggling with living costs, consider reaching out for assistance with bills or food banks.
Conclusion
Navigating sick pay can be complex, but understanding your rights and options can help you get the support you need while you’re recovering. If you have further questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to Contend’s legal expert chat. Contend’s highly trained AI legal experts will work with you to provide guidance and help you understand and resolve your legal problems. Contend is the Easiest Legal Help in the UK.
For more info, check out some of our related articles:
- Expert Guide to Securing Your Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) Rights in the UK
- Secure Your UK Statutory Sick Pay Rights: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Claim Your SSP Rights: A UK Employee’s Guide to Sick Pay
- Get Your Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) in the UK: A Complete Guide
- UK Sick Pay Guide: Claim Your Rights with Contend’s AI Help
