Statutory Sick Pay (Ireland)
Updated November 2026 · Free · No sign-up
Calculate Irish statutory sick pay — the Sick Leave Act scheme: 70% of normal pay, capped €110/day, for the scheme’s statutory days (5 — the planned ramp to 7/10 was paused; verify current), after 13 weeks’ service.
Quick answer: Ireland’s SSP: 70% of daily pay, max €110/day, for 5 statutory days per year (the escalation beyond 5 was deferred — check current status), with a medical cert from day one and a 13-week service qualifier. After employer days end, Illness Benefit (€244/week bands) takes over.
The Scheme
| Rate | 70% of normal daily pay, capped at €110/day |
| Days | 5 statutory days/year (the legislated ramp to 7 and 10 was paused in 2025 — verify the current number) |
| Qualifier | 13 weeks’ continuous service + medical certificate from day one |
| Better schemes | Employer plans at least as favourable can substitute |
| After SSP | Illness Benefit from the DSP (PRSI-based, ~€244/week top band) from day 3 of illness continuing |
Worked Examples
Example 1. €160/day, 3 certified days: 70% = €112 → capped €110 → €330 total from the employer.
Example 2 — low earner. €100/day: 70% = €70/day uncapped — the cap only bites above ~€157 of daily pay.
Example 3 — longer illness. Two weeks out: scheme days from the employer, then Illness Benefit (claim promptly — PRSI class and contributions decide the band) — plus any occupational scheme on top.
Context
Ireland legislated SSP only in 2022 (the pandemic lesson); the phased 3→5→7→10 ramp stalled at 5 amid cost debates — track Budget announcements. Compare: the UK’s flat-rate vs Ireland’s 70%-capped design — Ireland pays better for average earners, fewer days. Certified sickness during annual leave re-credits the leave days.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is statutory sick pay in Ireland?
70% of normal daily pay, capped at €110/day, for the scheme’s statutory days (currently 5/year — the ramp beyond was paused; verify).
Who qualifies for Irish SSP?
Employees with 13 weeks’ continuous service and a medical certificate from day one of absence.
What happens after SSP days run out?
DSP Illness Benefit (PRSI-contribution based, up to ~€244/week) from the state — claim promptly; occupational schemes may top up.
Can employers pay less under their own scheme?
No — company schemes must be at least as favourable overall to substitute for the statutory scheme.
Is a cert needed from day one?
Yes — unlike the UK’s self-certification week, the Irish scheme requires GP certification from the first day.
✓ Formula verified • Last updated: November 3, 2026