Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) is a payment made by employers to employees who are unable to work due to illness. But when does SSP actually start? In this article, we will discuss the eligibility criteria and the conditions that determine when SSP begins.
First and foremost, in order to qualify for SSP, an employee must be classed as an employee and have done some work for their employer. This means that workers, including agency workers, must have done some work for you under their contract. SSP also applies to directors and office holders.
Moreover, the employee must earn at least £120 per week, on average, and have been off work for at least 4 consecutive days. The earnings threshold is based on an average weekly earning over an 8-week period. If the employee earns less than £120 per week, they may still be eligible for SSP if they meet other criteria.
Once an employee meets the qualifying conditions, SSP will start from the 4th consecutive day of their sickness absence. The first three days of sickness are known as ‘waiting days’ and are not paid. SSP can be paid from the first qualifying day if the employee has been off work sick and getting SSP within the last 8 weeks. This is known as Linked Periods of Sickness.
It is important to note that SSP is paid for up to 28 weeks and is paid by employers, not the government. The current rate of SSP is £95.85 per week and is subject to change annually.
In cases where an employee is off sick for more than 28 weeks, they may be eligible to apply for other benefits such as Employment and Support Allowance (ESA). This benefit provides financial support to individuals unable to work due to illness or disability.
Furthermore, if an employee is off sick due to an injury or illness caused by their work, they may be eligible for Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit (IIDB). This benefit is paid to individuals who have become disabled due to an accident at work or due to certain prescribed diseases caused by their work.
It is important for both employers and employees to understand their rights and responsibilities when it comes to SSP. Employers must keep accurate records of sickness absence and ensure that SSP is paid correctly and on time. Failure to do so can result in penalties and legal action.
Employees, on the other hand, must notify their employer of their sickness absence as soon as possible and provide a doctor’s note if they are off work for more than 7 days. This will help to ensure that SSP is paid correctly and without any delays.
In conclusion, when does statutory sick pay start? SSP begins on the 4th consecutive day of sickness absence, provided that the employee meets the qualifying conditions. It is important for both employers and employees to be aware of their rights and responsibilities when it comes to SSP to ensure that it is paid correctly and on time. Understanding the eligibility criteria and the conditions that determine when SSP begins is crucial for both parties involved.