As we approach the month of April 2026, it’s important for employees and employers alike to be aware of the changes happening to statutory sick pay Statutory sick pay (SSP) is the minimum amount employees are entitled to receive when they are off work due to illness These changes are designed to reflect the current economic climate and provide support to those who need it most.
One of the key changes to SSP in April 2026 is the increase in the weekly rate From April 1st, 2026, the standard rate of SSP will rise from £96.35 to £100.50 per week This change is aimed at providing more financial support to employees who are unable to work due to sickness or injury It is important for employees to be aware of this increase so they can plan their finances accordingly during periods of illness.
In addition to the increase in the weekly rate, there will also be changes to the eligibility criteria for SSP in April 2026 Currently, employees must earn at least £120 per week to qualify for SSP However, from April 2026, this threshold will be increased to £125 per week This means that employees will need to earn a higher minimum income to be eligible for SSP, ensuring that those who need it most are able to access financial support during periods of illness.
Another important change to SSP in April 2026 is the extension of the waiting period before employees can start receiving payments Currently, employees are required to wait for 4 consecutive days of sickness before they can claim SSP statutory sick pay april 2026. However, from April 2026, this waiting period will be extended to 7 consecutive days This change is aimed at reducing the number of short-term absences and ensuring that SSP is targeted towards those who are genuinely unable to work due to illness.
Employers also need to be aware of the changes to SSP in April 2026 and ensure they are compliant with the new regulations Failure to provide employees with the correct amount of SSP or to follow the eligibility criteria could result in penalties from HM Revenue and Customs Employers should familiarize themselves with the changes to SSP and make any necessary updates to their payroll systems to ensure they are operating within the law.
It’s important for both employees and employers to understand the changes to statutory sick pay in April 2026 and how they may impact them By staying informed and prepared, both parties can navigate these changes smoothly and ensure that employees receive the support they need when they are unable to work due to illness Whether you are an employee needing to take time off work due to sickness or an employer looking to support your staff, being aware of the changes to SSP is essential.
In conclusion, the changes to statutory sick pay in April 2026 are designed to provide greater financial support to employees who are unable to work due to illness With an increase in the weekly rate, changes to the eligibility criteria, and an extension of the waiting period, these changes aim to ensure that SSP is targeted towards those who need it most Employers and employees alike should be aware of these changes and take the necessary steps to comply with the new regulations By staying informed and prepared, both parties can navigate these changes effectively and ensure that employees receive the support they need during periods of illness.