Sick pay is a benefit that many employees rely on when they are unwell and unable to work. However, the question of when sick pay actually starts can sometimes be confusing. In this article, we will explore the different scenarios in which sick pay can start and provide some clarity on this important issue.
First and foremost, it is important to distinguish between two types of sick pay: statutory sick pay (SSP) and company sick pay. SSP is a legal requirement for employers to provide to their employees, whereas company sick pay is an additional benefit that some employers offer on top of SSP.
In the UK, employees are entitled to SSP if they are off work sick for at least four consecutive days, including weekends and bank holidays. SSP is paid by the employer for up to 28 weeks and is currently set at £96.35 per week. To qualify for SSP, employees must earn at least £120 per week and notify their employer of their sickness within a certain time frame.
Company sick pay, on the other hand, is not a legal requirement but is offered by some employers as part of their employee benefits package. Company sick pay can vary greatly between different companies, with some offering full pay for a certain period of time and others offering a reduced rate of pay.
So when does sick pay start? In the case of SSP, it starts on the fourth consecutive day of sickness absence. This means that if you are off work sick for three days or less, you will not be entitled to SSP. However, if you are off work for four or more days, SSP should kick in from the fourth day onwards.
For company sick pay, the start date can vary depending on the employer’s policy. Some companies may offer company sick pay from the first day of sickness absence, while others may have a waiting period before company sick pay starts. It is important to check your employment contract or company handbook to find out when company sick pay will begin.
It is worth noting that some employers may require employees to provide a doctor’s note or fit note in order to qualify for sick pay. A fit note is a medical certificate from a doctor that confirms that you are unable to work due to illness. If your employer requests a fit note, it is important to obtain one from your doctor in a timely manner to ensure that your sick pay is not delayed.
In some cases, employees may also be eligible for sick pay from the government in addition to SSP. This is known as industrial injuries disablement benefit (IIDB) and is paid to employees who are unable to work due to an injury or illness caused by their job. IIDB is a separate benefit from SSP and is paid by the government rather than the employer.
In conclusion, sick pay can start on different dates depending on whether you are entitled to SSP, company sick pay, or other benefits such as IIDB. For SSP, it typically starts on the fourth consecutive day of sickness absence, while company sick pay may start from the first day or after a waiting period set by the employer. It is important to familiarize yourself with your employer’s sick pay policy and any legal requirements in order to ensure that you receive the sick pay that you are entitled to. when does sick pay start
Overall, understanding when sick pay starts can help employees plan for periods of illness and ensure that they receive the financial support that they need during difficult times. By being knowledgeable about sick pay entitlements, employees can focus on recovering from their illness without the added stress of worrying about their finances.