If you’re self-employed and unable to work due to illness, you might be wondering, “Can I get Statutory Sick Pay?”
The answer is simple. No, self-employed workers aren’t eligible for Statutory Sick Pay (SSP).
But that doesn’t mean you’re stuck with no income. Let’s look at what options you do have and why income protection could be the safety net you need.
What is statutory sick pay?
SSP is a benefit employers pay to their employees when they’re off work due to illness.
It’s currently £116.75 per week, paid for up to 28 weeks. But to get SSP, you must be:
- Employed by a company
- Earning at least £123 a week (before tax)
- Off sick for four or more days in a row
If you’re self-employed, there’s no employer to pay you, which means no SSP.
Why self-employed people aren’t eligible
SSP is tied to traditional employment. It’s paid through PAYE and depends on your employment status.
When you’re self-employed, you run your own business or work freelance. There’s no employer above you. So there’s no obligation to provide sick pay.
You’re essentially responsible for your safety net.
So what can you do instead?
This is where income protection insurance becomes useful.
Income protection is a policy you set up yourself. If you are unable to work due to illness or injury, it provides you with a regular monthly income.
You choose how much it pays and how long it pays out. It’s designed to keep you financially afloat while you recover.
It doesn’t matter if you’re employed or self-employed. As long as you earn an income, you can protect it.
How income protection helps the self-employed
Self-employed people often don’t have workplace benefits like SSP, sick leave, or employer-provided life insurance.
If you can’t work, you don’t get paid. Simple as that.
Income protection helps restore some of that financial security. Here’s how it works:
- You pick a monthly benefit amount (usually 50% to 70% of your income)
- Choose a deferred period (how long to wait before the payout begins)
- The policy then pays a regular tax-free income while you’re off work
Income protection covers all illnesses, as long as they aren’t pre-exiting, this includes mental health conditions, musculoskeletal issues, and long-term illnesses like cancer or heart disease.
FAQs
Can I get any help from the government if I’m sick and self-employed?
Possibly. You might qualify for Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) or Universal Credit, depending on your circumstances. But these benefits are often limited and means-tested.
Is income protection worth it if I’m healthy?
Yes. Many claims come from accidents or short-term conditions, not just serious illnesses. If you rely on your income to pay the bills, it’s worth protecting it.
Is income protection expensive?
It depends on your age, health, occupation, and the duration for which you want the benefit to be paid. Policies can start from under £10 a month, our team of income protection specialists can help you find the right cover.
Can limited company directors get income protection?
Yes. If you pay yourself through salary and/or dividends, income protection can be tailored to match your usual income.
Final thoughts
Self-employed workers don’t get Statutory Sick Pay. That’s a fact.
But that doesn’t mean you have to go without a safety net.
Income protection gives you a way to keep earning, even if you’re too ill to work. It puts you in control, no matter what your job title is or who your boss is (even if it’s just you).
If your income stops when you do, it’s worth protecting. Speak to one of our specialists to find the right policy for you.
