Statutory Sick Pay 2025: The UK government has announced significant updates to Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) for 2025, bringing welcome changes for employees across the nation. With the weekly rate now confirmed at £120, workers can expect enhanced financial support during periods of illness.
What is Statutory Sick Pay?
Statutory Sick Pay represents the minimum amount employers must pay eligible employees who cannot work due to illness. This government-mandated benefit serves as a financial safety net, ensuring workers don’t face complete income loss during recovery periods.
The system operates as a crucial component of the UK’s employment protection framework, providing peace of mind for millions of workers who might otherwise struggle financially while unwell.
2025 Rate Increase: From £109.40 to £120
The weekly SSP rate has increased from £109.40 to £120, representing a meaningful boost for those relying on this support. This £10.60 weekly increase translates to approximately £2.12 more per day for eligible workers.
This adjustment reflects the government’s commitment to maintaining SSP rates in line with economic pressures and cost of living considerations. For many employees, this extra support can make a genuine difference when managing household expenses during illness.
Key Eligibility Requirements
Basic Qualification Criteria
To qualify for SSP in 2025, employees must meet specific conditions. Workers need to earn at least £123 per week on average, ensuring the system supports those with regular employment arrangements.
The illness must last for at least four consecutive days, including weekends and bank holidays. This waiting period prevents short-term absences from triggering SSP claims while ensuring genuine cases receive support.
Employment Status Considerations
SSP applies to employees with standard employment contracts, but excludes certain categories. Self-employed individuals, casual workers without regular contracts, and those earning below the threshold cannot claim SSP through this system.
Duration and Payment Structure
Maximum Entitlement Period
SSP can be claimed for up to 28 weeks within any single period of incapacity. This extended timeframe recognizes that some illnesses require lengthy recovery periods, providing sustained support when needed most.
When Payments Begin
Unlike some benefits, SSP doesn’t start immediately. The first three days of illness serve as waiting days, with payments commencing from the fourth consecutive day of absence.
Employer Responsibilities Under New Rules
Administrative Requirements
Employers must maintain accurate records of SSP payments and employee absences. They’re required to provide SSP statements when employment ends, ensuring workers have proper documentation for future benefit claims.
Recovery and Offsetting
Small employers can recover some SSP costs through the Percentage Threshold Scheme. When SSP payments exceed 13% of their National Insurance contributions, employers can claim back the difference.
Important Changes for 2025
Documentation Standards
The government has streamlined evidence requirements, reducing administrative burden for both employees and employers. Self-certification remains acceptable for the first seven days, with medical certificates required for longer absences.
Integration with Universal Credit
SSP now integrates more seamlessly with Universal Credit claims, preventing gaps in support when transitioning between systems. This coordination ensures continuous financial assistance during extended illness periods.
Planning Ahead
Workers should familiarize themselves with these updated SSP provisions to understand their rights and entitlements. Keeping accurate records of earnings and absence dates helps ensure smooth claim processing when illness strikes.
The 2025 improvements to Statutory Sick Pay demonstrate ongoing commitment to supporting UK workers during challenging times. These changes provide enhanced security and clearer guidance for navigating illness-related absences in the workplace.
