Your Sick Pay Rights

From 6 April 2026, Statutory Sick Pay will be fairer and more accessible.

The key changes

• No more earnings threshold – Currently, you only get Statutory Sick Pay if you earn at least £125 per week. From 6 April 2026, all eligible employees can receive Statutory Sick Pay regardless of how much they earn.
• No more waiting days – Currently, Statutory Sick Pay only starts on your fourth day off sick. From 6 April 2026, you'll be paid from your first full day of sickness absence.

What this means for you

If you're off sick, you'll receive financial support sooner and won't be excluded because of lower earnings. This is particularly important if you work part-time, have variable hours, or are on a lower income.

What you can do now

These changes will apply automatically – you don't need to do anything.

If you're unable to work due to sickness:

• Tell your employer as soon as possible.
• Understand what Statutory Sick Pay you're entitled to.
• Check if your employer offers additional sick pay above the statutory minimum.

Where to get help

GOV.UK Statutory Sick Pay guidanceopens www.gov.uk in a new tab

Acas advice on sick payopens www.acas.org.uk in a new tab

For more information see the Statutory Sick Pay factsheetopens assets.publishing.service.gov.uk in a new tab