Employers must pay SSP from day one of absence and are now able to reclaim Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) paid for absence due to COVID-19.
The eligibility criteria for this temporary scheme will be as follows:
Only employees who have been advised to self-isolate as a result of coronavirus will be eligible
Employers should use their discretion concerning the need for medical evidence for certification for employees who have been required to self-isolate. This will allow GPs to focus on their patients. However, if evidence is required by an employer, those with symptoms of coronavirus can get an isolation note from NHS 111 online, and those who live with someone that has symptoms can get a note from the NHS website.
- This refund will cover up to 2 weeks SSP
- Employers with fewer than 250 employees will be eligible
Employers should maintain records
Employers should maintain records of staff absences and payments of SSP, but employees will not need to provide a GP fit note to return to work.
The government will work with employers
Over the coming months the government will be working with employers to set up the repayment mechanism for employers as soon as possible as this has not yet been confirmed.
Last updated: 23/03/2020
View our comprehensive COVID-19 Resource Centre
Share Article
Contact our business consultancy team today
It's easy to book an initial consultation - just provide some brief details, and your preferred date and time, and we'll reply by email to confirm your appointment.
