SSP Changes 2026: What the New Sick Pay Rules Mean for You

Current SSP Rules (2025/26)

Before we look at what's changing, here's how Statutory Sick Pay works right now under the 2025/26 rules:

For full details on current eligibility, see the official GOV.UK Statutory Sick Pay guidance.

What's Changing from April 2026

The Employment Rights Bill introduces the most significant changes to SSP in decades. Here's a side-by-side comparison of the old and new rules:

These changes mean that around 1.3 million low-paid workers who previously had no access to SSP will now be covered. The shift from a flat rate to a percentage-based system also ensures lower earners receive a payment proportional to their income, rather than potentially more than they would normally earn.

Who Benefits Most from the Changes?

While the new rules are better for almost everyone, certain groups stand to gain the most:

• Low earners (below £125/wk): Previously excluded entirely from SSP, these workers will now qualify and receive 80% of their earnings from day one of sickness.
• Part-time workers: Many part-time employees fall below the current Lower Earnings Limit. The removal of this threshold brings them into the safety net.
• Zero-hours contract workers: Workers on variable-hours contracts who sometimes dip below the earnings threshold will now always be covered.
• Those with short illnesses: Under current rules, the 3-day waiting period means a week off sick only yields 2 days of SSP. From April 2026, you'll be paid for all 5 qualifying days.

Use our SSP calculator to toggle between the current and new rules and see exactly how the changes affect your entitlement.

How Much SSP Will You Get Under New Rules?

Under the new system, your SSP rate is 80% of your average weekly earnings, capped at £123.25 per week. Here's how it works at different income levels:

The cap at £123.25 means that anyone earning more than approximately £154/week will receive the maximum rate. For most full-time workers, the weekly SSP amount will be higher than the current flat rate of £116.75.

What This Means for Employers

Employers will need to adjust their payroll systems and budgets to accommodate the new rules. Key considerations include:

• Higher costs for short absences: Paying from day 1 instead of day 4 increases the cost of every sickness absence.
• More employees covered: Workers previously below the LEL will now need to be included in SSP calculations.
• Variable rate calculations: Payroll systems need to handle the 80% calculation rather than a simple flat rate.
• Existing sick pay schemes: Employers with enhanced sick pay will need to review whether their schemes already exceed the new SSP rates.

For official employer guidance, visit GOV.UK Employers and Sick Pay.

What to Do If You're Off Sick

Whether under current or new rules, here are the steps to make sure you receive the SSP you're entitled to:

1. Notify your employer promptly: Most employers require you to report sickness within a set timeframe (often by the end of your first day off). Check your contract or staff handbook for specific rules.
2. Get a fit note after 7 days: For absences longer than 7 calendar days, you'll need a fit note (previously called a sick note) from your GP or hospital doctor.
3. Check your payslip: Make sure SSP appears on your payslip. It should be clearly shown as a separate line item, and tax and NI will be deducted as normal.

For more on your rights and the claims process, visit GOV.UK Statutory Sick Pay.