Decoding Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) in the UK

by Daniel Greenfield

The UK has one of the most complicated statutory sick pay entitlements in Europe. After the COVID-19 pandemic, several countries including the UK, implemented new laws for employee support.

This article aims to provide an in-depth examination of SSP rights in the UK, its regulations, and how it supports employees during their sickness absences.

What is Statutory Sick Pay (SSP)?

Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) is a fundamental element of the United Kingdom's comprehensive social security framework, playing a pivotal role in providing financial assistance to employees incapacitated due to illness or injury.

Aligned with other support programs such as Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP) and the Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), SSP underscores the nation's commitment to safeguarding employee well-being.

The Process of SSP Claims

Employers must be prepared to handle SSP claims from the moment an employee reports their sickness. A step-by-step guide to the claims process is provided here:

1. The employee reports their illness and intention to claim SSP to their employer according to company guidelines.
2. The employer determines SSP eligibility based on earnings, length of employment, and existing sick pay schemes.
3. After confirming eligibility, the employer calculates the appropriate SSP rate and payment amount for the employee.
4. Employers process payments on the employee's regular payday.
5. Employers must maintain SSP records for compliance and smooth transitions during future absences.

Maintaining SSP Records and Compliance

Employers must keep accurate records of employee sick leave and payments, including employee details, sickness dates, evidence, SSP payments, and reclaimed amounts if applicable. Records must be kept for at least three years and may be requested during inspections or disputes.

• Employee's name and National Insurance number
• Dates and duration of the employee's sickness absences
• Any evidence provided by the employee to support their sickness claim, such as a doctor's note
• Details on the SSP payments made, including payment dates and any additional sick pay provided
• Information on reclaimed SSP amounts, if applicable

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