What is Statutory Sick Pay?

Definition of Statutory Sick Pay (SSP)

Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) is the minimum amount of sick pay that an employer must pay to employees who cannot work due to illness.

From 10th April 2023, employers must currently pay eligible employees a minimum of £109.40 per week Statutory Sick Pay for a period of up to 28 weeks. The government website has more information on who is eligible for Statutory Sick Pay.

Employees must receive at least the statutory minimum and may be paid more if their employer has a sick pay scheme.

Statutory Sick Pay for the self-employed

Limited company directors who are employees of their own company are entitled to Statutory Sick Pay (SSP). In order to qualify for SSP you must:

• have been ill for at least four days in a row (including non-working days)
• earn an average of at least £123 per week

Sole traders and partners in a partnership are not eligible for SSP, but may be able to claim Employment and Support Allowance (ESA).

You can normally receive SSP from the fourth day you are off work due to illness. More information is available in our guide on sick pay for the self-employed.