Fit Notes

What to do if you are off work for 7 days or less

The seven days include days that you don’t normally work. When you work out how long you have been off sick, you should count weekends and bank holidays.

• If you are off work for 7 days or less, you DO NOT need to give your employer a fit note or other proof of sickness from a medical professional.
• Your employer may ask you to complete a self-certification form (SC2)
• Your employer may be able to provide you with this form
• Alternatively, you can complete the form online on the HMRC website

What to do if you are off work for more than 7 days

The seven days include days that you don’t normally work. When you work out how long you have been off sick, you should count weekends and bank holidays.

• You will usually need a doctor's certificate if you are off work for more than 7 days.
• You can contact us via Accurx to request a sick note.
• You will be issued a fit note or you may be asked to book a telephone or routine appointment so that the doctor can assess you.

What to do if you need to extend your Fit Note

If your certificate runs out but you are still sick, you will need to contact the doctor again before you can get a further certificate.

• You can contact us via Accurx to request a sick note.
• Your note will be renewed or you may be asked to book a telephone or routine appointment so that the doctor can assess you again.
• Fit notes can be backdated, so it is not necessary to make an emergency appointment to renew your certificate.

Charges

• There is usually no charge for providing a fit note if you are off sick for over 7 days.
• Some employers may request a fit note (for example, from employees who repeatedly take time off sick) even if they are work for seven days or less. This is a non-NHS medical certificate and there is a charge for this.