A-Z of Benefits

£75.40 per week

Who is it for?
Employed people who are unable to work because of illness. Some exceptions (e.g. people on contracts of less than 3 months).

Who pays it?
Employer - disputes handled by HMRC.

Which leaflet? And how is it claimed?
NI244. By notifying employer, using self-certification for first 7 days of claim.

What are the age limits?
Up to age 65.

National Insurance based?
No, but must have recent earnings over the lower earnings limit (£90 per week from April 2008).

Means tested?
No.

How long does it last?
Total of 28 weeks.

What is effect on other benefits?
Overlaps with all NI benefits except bereavement allowance, and counts in full for all means tested benefits.

Is it taxable?
Yes.

Increases for dependants?
No.

Payable if in EU or other?
Yes, if UK employer in EU.

Points to watch
People may be due Income Support as a "top-up" or when SSP period ends. Transfer to Incapacity Benefit after 28 weeks if NI contributions conditions satisfied or if aged under 25.

The A-Z of Benefits 2008 was compiled by Gary Vaux and Community Care.