Navigating sick pay as a contractor

If you’ve recently made the transition from a full-time role, to self-employment/contracting then you probably have a lot of questions, including ‘will I get paid when I’m poorly?!’. In this blog, we look at navigating sick pay as a contractor and how it all works. 

Sick pay as limited company contractor

Unfortunately self-employed contractors will not receive sick pay if they fall ill and will have to take unpaid days off to recover. 

Sick pay under an umbrella 

When you work through an umbrella company, you are automatically considered to be in full-time employment. This means you are legally entitled to employee benefits including sick pay (win!), holiday pay and maternity pay. 

What is the sick pay entitlement for umbrella contractors?

Contractors are entitled to a standard rate of sick pay through umbrella companies, which amounts to £95.85 per week for up to 28 weeks. This payment is provided by the umbrella company in cases where the contractor is unable to work due to illness.

Is there a criteria I need to meet to receive sick pay from my umbrella? 

Yes, you are only eligible for statutory sick pay if: 

• You make an average of £120 per week before tax and National Insurance.
• You have been ill for four consecutive days (including weekends but you will only be paid for the days you would have been working). 
• After 7 days of sickness (if applicable) you are able to provide a doctor’s note
• You’re not currently receiving maternity pay
• You have received the maximum amount of statutory sick pay for 28 weeks

Start your umbrella contracting journey today…

Looking for a complaint umbrella to help make your contracting journey seamless? Get in touch with the Mint Umbrella team today on 0203 967 6846 or email us at  [email protected] for a pay illustration.