Other rules



If you are pregnant



The right to SSP technically ceases if you are on a pregnancy-related absence in the four weeks before the due date. However, in practice, an employer can choose to disregard odd days of pregnancy–related sickness absence. If you do not have a pregnancy-related illness, you can get SSP up to the day before Statutory Maternity Pay or Maternity Allowance is due to start.



Independent medical examination


If your employer does not believe that you are sick (even if you have evidence from your doctor) you may need to go for an independent medical examination (which can only take place with your permission) arranged through HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) before a decision is made. 



The HMRC Statutory Payments Disputes Team may be able to resolve the dispute informally by issuing an “informal opinion” based on the evidence given by you, your employer and the results of the medical examination. If it is not possible to resolve the dispute informally or by giving a written opinion, a Nominated Officer can give a formal decision.