What is Form SC2? Self-Certification for SSP in the UK

What is Form SC2?

The SC2 form, officially known as the Employee’s Statement of Sickness, is a document used by employees in the UK to inform their employer of an absence from work due to illness. Employees can use it to confirm that they were unable to work due to illness for seven days or less without requiring a doctor’s certificate. This form is integral to claiming Statutory Sick Pay (SSP), ensuring employees receive the support they are entitled to during short-term illnesses.

The SC2 form collects important details, such as the reason for the sickness, the dates of absence, and confirmation that the employee has been unable to work. Employers use this information to determine eligibility for Statutory Sick Pay (SSP). The form is available for download from the UK Government’s website or can be provided directly by the employer. It is an essential part of managing short-term sickness absences in compliance with SSP regulations.

What are the eligibility criteria for Statutory Sick Pay (SSP)?

To qualify for Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) and complete an SC2 form, employees must meet specific eligibility criteria. Firstly, you need to be legally employed and earn at least the Lower Earnings Limit (LEL) for National Insurance, which is reviewed annually. To qualify, you must have been off work due to illness for at least four consecutive days, including weekends and non-working days. SSP is only payable starting from the fourth qualifying day of your sickness absence. Additionally, you must not have already claimed the maximum 28 weeks of SSP within a benefit year. Self-employed individuals, those earning below the LEL, or employees receiving maternity pay are not eligible. Submitting the SC2 form accurately documents your sickness and ensures that your employer has the necessary information to process your claim.

How to Fill Out Form SC2?

Filling out Form SC2 is straightforward but requires accuracy to avoid delays or rejections. The form contains the following key sections:

1. Employee Details

• Full name and National Insurance number.
• Contact information (if requested by the employer).

2. Details of Sickness

• Start and end date of the illness.
• Brief description of the illness or symptoms.

3. Days of Absence

• Specify which days you were unable to work due to illness.
• Ensure these dates align with your employer’s records.

4. Declaration

• Sign and date the form to confirm the accuracy of the information provided.

The completed form should be submitted to the employer promptly. Most employers accept the Form SC2 PDF, which can be filled out electronically or printed and completed manually.

Where to Submit Form SC2?

The Form SC2 must be submitted directly to the employer. This form is not sent to HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) or any government department, as SSP is paid by your employer rather than the government. Ensure that you hand it over to your manager, the payroll department, or whoever is responsible for handling employee benefits in your workplace. If you are unsure who to submit the form to, check your employee handbook or consult your HR department for guidance.

Timely submission of the SC2 form is crucial to avoid delays in receiving your Statutory Sick Pay. Ideally, the form should be submitted as soon as possible after the first four days of illness. Some employers may have specific deadlines or additional requirements, so it’s important to follow their instructions. By promptly submitting the form, you allow your employer to verify your eligibility for SSP and ensure that your payment is processed without unnecessary delays.

What are the Roles of Employers in SSP and Form SC2?

Employers play a crucial role in the administration of Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) and the processing of Form SC2. When an employee becomes ill and is unable to work, it is the employer’s responsibility to assess their eligibility for SSP based on the information provided. Employers must review the SC2 form, which contains details about the employee’s illness, absence dates, and reason for not working. This form acts as the employee’s statement of sickness and helps employers determine whether the criteria for SSP are met.

In addition to verifying the SC2 form, employers are responsible for calculating and paying SSP accurately. They must ensure that payments begin from the fourth qualifying day of sickness, as per the SSP guidelines. Employers are also tasked with keeping detailed records of the employee’s absence and SSP payments for compliance purposes. If an employee is not eligible for SSP, the employer must issue a written explanation and guide the employee on alternative options, such as applying for Employment and Support Allowance (ESA). By fulfilling these responsibilities, employers maintain compliance with SSP regulations while supporting their employees during periods of illness.

What are the common scenarios related to Form SC2?

Form SC2 is commonly used in various scenarios related to employee statutory sick pay. Some of the most common situations include:

1. Employee Illness: When an employee needs to claim statutory sick pay due to illness or injury, they use Form SC2 to notify their employer.
2. Short-Term Sickness: Form SC2 is often required for absences lasting more than four consecutive days but less than seven days, as proof of sickness.
3. Employer’s Record-Keeping: Employers may request Form SC2 to maintain accurate records of sickness-related absences for payroll and compliance purposes.
4. Medical Evidence Not Required: In cases where a doctor’s certificate is not necessary, Form SC2 serves as a self-declaration of sickness.
5. Statutory Sick Pay Eligibility Check: Employers use Form SC2 to assess if the employee qualifies for statutory sick pay under UK regulations.

These scenarios highlight the importance of Form SC2 in managing employee sick leave and ensuring compliance with employment laws.

Conclusion

Form SC2 is a vital document for UK employees to self-certify short-term illnesses and claim Statutory Sick Pay. Its simple structure ensures that employees can report sickness-related absences without the need for immediate medical documentation. By filling out the form accurately and submitting it promptly, employees can avoid payment delays and maintain good standing with their employers.

Employers, in turn, have a responsibility to process these forms fairly and transparently. Understanding the purpose and process of Form SC2 benefits both employees and employers, ensuring compliance with UK employment laws. For questions or disputes, seek advice from HMRC or employment law specialists to protect your rights.

1. What is the SC2 form used for in Ofsted-registered organizations?

The SC2 form in Ofsted-registered settings is typically used for staff declarations. However, when referred to as a Statement of Sickness Form SC2, it helps employees self-certify illnesses lasting seven days or less. It ensures that employers in Ofsted-regulated environments can process sickness-related absences in compliance with statutory requirements.

2. Can the self-certification form SC2 be used in NHS settings?

Yes, the self-certification form SC2 is widely used within the NHS. Employees in NHS roles can complete the Statement of Sickness Form SC2 to report short-term absences. It simplifies the SSP process by eliminating the need for a doctor’s certificate for absences of seven days or less.

3. Where can I download the SC2 form for self-certification?

The SC2 self-certification form is available as a downloadable PDF from the NHS or GOV.UK websites. Employers in NHS or Ofsted-regulated settings may also provide printed copies upon request.