Fit notes (Statement of fitness for work

A fit note, officially called a Statement of Fitness for Work, is a medical certificate issued by a doctor or healthcare professional. It provides evidence that you are not fit for work, or that you may be fit for work if certain adjustments can be made by your employer.

If you are off work for 7 days or fewer, you do not normally need a fit note from your GP. Instead, you can self-certify your illness with your employer.

Evidence that you are sick

If you are sick for more than 7 days, your employer may ask you to provide medical evidence to support a claim for Statutory Sick Pay (SSP).

It is your employer's responsibility to decide whether you are incapable of work. A fit note (Statement of Fitness for Work) from your doctor is strong evidence of your illness and will normally be accepted unless there is evidence to suggest otherwise.

If you have been treated in hospital, the hospital should provide any fit note you need, including any period of recovery immediately after you leave. If you need a further fit note after this, your GP can provide one if appropriate.

In some circumstances, you may also be able to provide evidence from another healthcare professional, such as a dentist. Your employer will decide whether this evidence is acceptable. If they require further medical evidence, they may ask for a fit note from your GP.

More information

Fit notes help explain how your illness or injury affects your ability to work. They can confirm that you are not fit for work, or that you may be fit for work with appropriate support or adjustments from your employer.

For more information, visit the GOV.UK website.