Kritika 
(C): Unsplash
UK Sick Pay regulations are going to be changed dramatically in 2026. The three-day waiting period before you can receive Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) has been removed, and it can be paid from the first day of sickness. The income limit for excluding lower-paid employees has also been lifted, making almost everybody eligible. So how is it done, and what can you do if your boss hesitates to pay you?
Quick Facts
| Topic | Details |
| Waiting period | Abolished, meaning that the wage will be paid from the first day. |
| Earnings threshold (LEL) | Removed — all workers now eligible |
| How SSP is calculated | A flat rate OR 80% of average earnings (whichever is less) |
| Self-certification period | First 7 days of the illness |
| No proof required after 7 days | A medical note from your doctor. |
| If employer refuses payment | They will provide you with a written SSP1 form. |
What’s Actually Changed?
The new regulations mean that UK Sick Pay will now be paid from the first day of sickness – previously there was a three-day waiting period. Plus the LOWER EARNINGS LIMIT (LEL) has been scrapped, meaning that you don’t need to have a specific earnings threshold to qualify. The statutory flat rate or 80% of your average earnings is whichever is the lower.
This is one of the most important SSP reform 2026 changes for workers in the UK, and it’s important to grasp correctly, particularly the claim process.
How to Claim Day-1 SSP
- Call your boss or employer to inform them that you are sick on or before the qualifying date — or within 7 days if you can’t get in touch with them. Look at your employer’s sickness absence policy – many employers prefer the phone call over a text or email.
- Present evidence: You are able to self-certify the illness for the first 7 days; previously, you would have had to present a doctor’s note. You will require a fit note from your GP to continue to receive payment if you are away from work for more than 7 days.
- Before claiming any disputes, use the GOV.UK. Double-check what you’re entitled to using the calculator!
What to Do If Your Boss Delays or Refuses Payment
Try to sort out the issue with your employer first with UK Sick Pay, as it is not uncommon for payroll to be processed incorrectly or take time.
If all else fails:
- Get a written refusal — your employer will need to explain in writing why they refuse on an SSP1 form. If they refuse to pay, by law they are required to provide this.
- If you don’t get the SSP1 form from HMRC, or you think their explanation is wrong, tell the HMRC Statutory Payment Dispute Team.
- Have details ready: Your personal information, the details of your employer, the dates of your sickness, and what you were told when you asked for payment.
Old Rules vs. New Rules of UK Sick Pay : At a Glance
| Before 2026 | After 2026 |
| Waiting period | 3 unpaid “waiting days” → Paid from Day 1 |
| Earnings limit | Lower Earnings Limit applied to fee. → All workers are removed on LEL, except the ones listed above. |
| Self-certification | Up to 7 days → May remain up to 7 days (unchanged) |
| Dispute process | SSP1 form + HMRC → SSP1 form + HMRC (unchanged) |
FAQs
Can my employer refuse to pay Statutory Sick Pay?
They are only able to refuse for sound reasons and must record their reasons on an SSP1 form. If they refuse to give it to you, you could contact HMRC.
How long will it take to receive SSP?
SSP is usually paid in conjunction with your regular payroll period. If your employer is seriously late paying without giving a reason, discuss it first and then, if that doesn’t resolve it, take it up with HMRC.
Is a doctor’s note required to be able to get sick pay?
If you’re away for more than 7 days only. Prior to that, there is only self-certification.
If I’m a low-paid worker or part-time, can I still get it?
Yes. There is no longer a “Lower Earnings Limit”, and you are no longer required to earn a certain amount to be eligible.
Key Takeaways
- There was a previous requirement to wait 3 days before UK Sick Pay could be paid, but that has been scrapped from now on.
- The earnings threshold is abolished, making it more accessible to nearly all workers.
- To be self-certified for the first 7 days, and then a fit note thereafter.
- If your employer does not pay you UK Sick Pay or pays it late, ask them to complete SSP1 on a written form.
- Any unresolved disputes should be referred directly to the Statutory Payment Dispute Team in HMRC.
More Workplace Rights Stories Worth Reading
Why Is Tesla Facing Scrutiny?
Find out what labor allegations have sparked concerns in Germany.
Who Gets The $20 Million?
Uncover how Chipotle workers may benefit from the settlement.
Can Moving States Cut Pay?
Explore the laws governing remote work salary adjustments.
Which UK Jobs Pay Most?
Check out top-paying opportunities and their eligibility requirements.
How Does Day-1 SSP Help?
Learn how the end of the waiting period changes sick pay rights.
