One of the very important things often ignored by the temporary workers is the importance of Statutory Sick Pay (SSP). It is left to the very last minute when the situation arises. That shouldn’t be the case.
Umbrella company workers are entitled to Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) and it is important for every temporary worker to be aware of it. The SSP entitlement is £96.35 per week for up to 28 weeks. It is the standard rate of sick pay.
What are the eligibility criteria for Statutory Sick Pay (SSP)?
When a temporary worker is ill for 4 or more days consecutively including weekends, they become eligible for statutory sick pay.
What are the guidelines for Statutory Sick Pay (SSP)?
First and foremost, the worker should have spent some time working on the assignment. They also must have a contract with the umbrella company. It is required for proof of employment.
Also, it is essential for the worker to inform the umbrella company about the illness within 7 days and the information needs to be error-free and accurate. There could be a potential loss of statutory sick pay if the timeline is not met, and if that happens to be the case, a sick note from the Doctor is required.
To qualify for SSP, the worker must have earned an average of £120 per week before tax and National Insurance.
Covid-19 effect on Statutory Sick Pay (SSP)
Due to Covid-19, some temporary amendments have been made to the SSP. They have been modified to accommodate Covid-19 related health issues.
Instead of the fourth day, SSP is being paid from the 1st day of the illness itself.
How does Covid-19 affect the Statutory Sick Pay (SSP)?
There have been some temporary amendments made to the Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) to accommodate the Covid-19 situation. Rules, regulations and criteria have been modified to accommodate Covid-19 related issues. It is applicable to those who had contracted the virus or had to go into self-isolation because one of their family members has had the virus, or had to self-isolate due to government guidelines.
Only “working days” mentioned in the contract are covered and not all days. Also, a Doctor’s note or NHS111 would work as evidence.
Who is ineligible for Statutory Sick Pay (SSP)?
Those who have reached the 28-week limit and received the maximum amount of statutory sick pay, would not be eligible.
To claim SSP, you should not be receiving maternity pay or allowance. That would make you ineligible.
Other than that, if you are working outside the UK or are on strike or in custody, will make you ineligible. So, working in the UK and making National Insurance Contributions (NIC) is mandatory.
How to claim Statutory Sick Pay (SSP)?
It is very easy and straightforward to claim Statutory Sick Pay (SSP). You just need to inform your umbrella company via email, or a telephone call.
You can speak with the umbrella company to find out how you can claim SSP.
If you need any further help, please feel free to reach us at [email protected]