Health
Benefits while signed off sick
5 min read · Updated 26 May 2026
If a GP has signed you off work, you have several possible sources of income. Which one applies depends on your employment status, your contributions and your household. Here's a calm overview.
Statutory Sick Pay (SSP)
If you're an employee earning at least the lower earnings limit, your employer usually has to pay SSP for up to 28 weeks of sickness. It starts after the first few qualifying days.
SSP is paid by your employer, taxed like wages, and goes through your normal payslip.
Universal Credit while sick
You can claim Universal Credit alongside SSP if your household income is low. A fit note from your GP is needed if you can't work. After an assessment, you may be put in the 'limited capability for work' (LCW) or 'limited capability for work and work-related activity' (LCWRA) group, which can add an extra element to your UC.
New Style Employment and Support Allowance
If you've paid enough NI contributions, you may qualify for New Style ESA. It's not means-tested, so savings and partner income don't affect it. It can be claimed alongside UC.
Other help to check
- PIP if you have a long-term condition affecting daily living or mobility
- Council Tax Reduction
- NHS Low Income Scheme for prescriptions and dental care
- Help from your energy supplier if you're vulnerable
Find out what you may be entitled to
Take the free 15-question check for an indicative view of UK benefits and support that may apply to you. No login, no email required.
Frequently asked questions
Sources and further reading
Practical next steps
Calm, ordered actions you can take now. Pick the one that fits where you are today.
- Start the free benefit check
Indicative results in about five minutes. No login.
Common situations
People reading this guide often find one of these situations close to theirs.
When you are signed off sick
What financial support may apply while you are unable to work due to illness.
When your partner works
How partner income affects Universal Credit and other support after a job loss, illness or reduced hours.
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