Statutory Sick Pay (SSP)
What it really means
The minimum pay you may get from your employer if you are too ill to work, for up to 28 weeks. Some employers pay more generous company sick pay on top. The exact rate and rules are on GOV.UK.
Context, tips & common mistakes
SSP is paid by your employer through payroll like normal wages — you do not claim it from the government, so 'ask HR' is the right first step, not a benefits office. Eligibility depends on earning above a minimum average and being classed as an employee or agency worker; zero-hours and agency staff frequently qualify and are frequently told otherwise, so check GOV.UK rather than taking a manager's word. For the first week of illness you self-certify — no doctor's note needed, and GP surgeries will usually refuse to write one — after seven days (counting weekends) you need a fit note, which can be issued digitally.
If an employer refuses SSP you think you are owed, they must give the reason in writing on request, and HMRC has a disputes route. Company sick pay above the statutory floor is purely contractual, so read your contract before assuming full pay while off.