Holiday Pay vs Sick Pay
Holiday pay and sick pay are two of the most commonly misunderstood employment rights. This comparison sets out the statutory position and what to expect from your employer.
| Feature | Holiday Pay | Sick Pay |
|---|---|---|
| Statutory entitlement | 28 days (5.6 weeks) per year including bank holidays | Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) of £116.75/week after 3 waiting days |
| Who qualifies | All workers from day one | Employees earning at least £123/week — not self-employed |
| How it accrues | Accrues from first day of employment throughout the year | No accrual — applies per period of sickness |
| Maximum duration | 28 days per year (more if employer enhances) | SSP for up to 28 weeks; enhanced pay depends on employer policy |
| Can you take holiday while sick | Yes — holiday accrues during sick leave and can be taken instead | Sick leave and holiday can run concurrently if agreed |
| Payment on leaving | Any unused statutory holiday must be paid out on termination | SSP does not carry over — no payment on leaving |
Many employers offer enhanced sick pay and more than 28 days holiday. Always check your contract. If in dispute, contact Acas.
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