Statutory Paternity Pay UK Explained

If you are about to become a parent, you may be entitled to paid time off work. Statutory Paternity Pay (SPP) applies to eligible employees who are the biological father, the partner of the mother or the intended parent in adoption or surrogacy.

Who is eligible?

To get SPP you normally need to have worked for your employer for at least 26 weeks by the end of the 15th week before the baby is due, remain employed until the birth, and earn at least the lower earnings limit for National Insurance on average each week. Paternity leave itself is a day-one right for employees, but pay depends on meeting the earnings and service tests.

How much leave can you take?

You can take either one week or two consecutive weeks. Since 2024, you can take leave in two separate blocks of one week each, and you can choose when to start within 52 weeks of the birth. You must give your employer notice, usually by the end of the 15th week before the due date.

How much is Statutory Paternity Pay?

SPP is paid at a flat weekly rate or 90% of your average weekly earnings, whichever is lower. The flat rate is set each April, so check the current figure on GOV.UK. Many employers pay more than the statutory minimum, so read your contract or staff handbook.

Example: if the flat rate is £190 and your average weekly earnings are £600 (90% = £540), you receive the lower figure, £190 a week. Two weeks pays £380 before tax.

Check your own estimate in the Paternity Pay Calculator UK.

Shared Parental Leave and other options

You may also be eligible for Shared Parental Leave and Statutory Shared Parental Pay, which can let you and your partner split time off in the first year. Unpaid parental leave and annual leave can be used to extend your time away.

How to apply

Tell your employer in writing about the due date and when you want to start. Your employer may ask for a self-certificate. Employers recover most of SPP from HMRC, so they are used to processing it.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is paternity leave in the UK?

One week or two weeks, which can be taken in one block or two separate blocks of one week.

How much is Statutory Paternity Pay?

The lower of a flat weekly rate or 90% of your average weekly earnings.

Can I take paternity leave if I am self-employed?

Statutory Paternity Pay is for employees. Self-employed people may be able to claim other support such as Maternity Allowance in some cases, so check GOV.UK.

Do I need 26 weeks of service for paternity leave?

The 26-week test applies to pay. Leave is available to employees from day one.

This article is for general information only and is not financial, legal or medical advice. Rules and figures change, so check the official sources below and speak to a qualified adviser for decisions that matter.