When you do and don’t need a Fit Note

• If you are off work sick for 7 days or less, you do not need a Fit Note from your GP.

• Your employer may ask you to self-certify your sickness when you return to work.

• The 7 days include weekends and bank holidays.

Self-certification

• Many employers have their own self-certification forms.

• If they do not, an SC2 self-certification form (HMRC Employee’s Statement of Sickness) can be used.
  More Information: SC2 self-certification form

If you are off work for more than 7 days

• If your illness lasts more than 7 days, your employer will usually ask for a Fit Note from a GP.

• When a Fit Note is needed may depend on your employer’s sickness policy. If you are unsure, please check with your manager or HR department.

Requesting a Fit Note

• If you have been off work sick for more than 7 days, you can request a Fit Note using our online request form via SystmConnect.

• In some cases, you may not need to see a GP again if you have already been assessed or we have received information from the hospital.

If your Fit Note runs out

• If your Fit Note expires and you are still unwell, you will need further medical advice before another certificate can be issued.

• Fit Notes can be backdated, so an emergency appointment is not required for renewal.

About Fit Notes

• Fit Notes are completed by a doctor and may say you are “not fit for work” or “may be fit for work”.

• If appropriate, your GP may suggest temporary adjustments to help you return to work safely, such as reduced hours or amended duties.

• If you are under the care of a hospital, your Fit Note may be issued by the hospital rather than the GP practice.

Charges for Fit Notes

• There is no charge for an NHS Fit Note if you have been off work sick for more than 7 days.

• If your employer asks for a certificate when you have been off work for 7 days or less, this is not covered by the NHS and is treated as a private medical certificate.

• In these cases, a fee of £20 is payable.

Fit Notes follow national NHS guidance and can only be issued where clinically appropriate.