Navigating sick leave and statutory pay entitlements can be a labyrinth for both employers and employees. The SS1P Form, often the starting point for both parties, is a critical form that dictates the way statutory sick pay (SSP) operates in the UK. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk through the purpose of the SS1P Form, its significance, and how filling it in correctly is instrumental in managing employee health benefits and claims judiciously. If you’ve been unsure about the role of the SS1P, rest assured – by the end of this post, you'll have a deep understanding of its power and implications.
The SS1P Form Unpacked
To begin, let's demystify the SS1P Form. This document is essentially a way for an employer to inform an employee of what to expect when they are faced with the unfortunate situation of being too unwell to work for a period exceeding 4 days. It details
- the procedures for employees who can't get statutory sick pay or
- their SSP is coming to an end.
This is exceptionally important for employers to understand, as it not only affects the well-being and morale of their team but also has substantial implications for their payroll, record keeping, and even future hiring practices. This is where we come in stage, to learn more, have a chat with us here
When to Send SSP1 Form?
- You must send the SSP1 Form at least 7 days before the end of your employee's statutory sick payment period or
- if it's abruptly ended, you must send it on or before the 23rd week of their statutory sick payment period.
Who Needs to Complete the SS1P Form and When?
If you’re an employer who needs to complete an SS1P form, it suggests that a critical juncture has been reached in your employee's health and compensation. The timing comes into play when an employee’s SSP is coming to an end or when they cannot receive SSP due to not meeting the conditions.
What Needs to be Filled In?
The SS1P includes information about an employee's absence from work, including
- the start and end dates of their sick leave,
- and details regarding any doctor’s notes or medical evidence provided.
- It also requires details about the employee's average weekly earnings and their personal details.
It's important to note that any incorrect information on the form could result in complications with payroll and employee benefits, causing unnecessary stress and confusion.
How Much Does SS1P Pay?
Statutory sick pay is paid at a flat rate of £109.40 per week for up to 28 weeks, as of April 2023. This amount is subject to change by the government every financial year. For more information, visit the UK government website on SSP.
SSP1 Form and Benefits
SSP1 and Universal Credit
It's important to note that receiving SSP may also affect an employee's eligibility for Universal Credit. The SSP1 form provides information about the amount of SSP received and can be used as proof for Universal Credit claims.
Some employees may claim Universal Credit while still receiving SSP, in which case they will need to show their employer a from their doctor as evidence of ongoing sickness.
SSP1 and Support Allowance (ESA)
SSP may also affect an employee's eligibility for Employment and Support Allowance (ESA). The SSP1 form can be used as proof of sickness if the employee needs to apply for ESA. They may also need to provide a from their doctor as evidence of ongoing sickness.
Conclusion
The SS1P form is a crucial document for both employers and employees to understand. It outlines the procedures for receiving statutory sick pay and provides important information that can affect an employee's eligibility for other benefits such as Universal Credit and Employment and Support Allowance. As an employer, it's essential to fill out this form accurately and on time to avoid any complications with payroll or employee benefits. We hope this guide has shed light on the importance of the SS1P form and its role in managing employee health benefits.
