What is Statutory Paternity Pay (SPP) in the UK?

Statutory Paternity Pay (SPP) is the legal minimum pay for eligible fathers taking paternity leave. In 2026, SPP is £184.03 per week (or 90% of average weekly earnings if lower). You can take 1 or 2 weeks of paternity leave. Your employer must pay SPP if you're eligible.

Who is eligible for paternity pay in the UK?

You're eligible if: employed (employee or worker), have worked for your employer for 26 weeks continuously by the 15th week before the due date, earn at least £123 per week, and take time off to care for the child. You must also be the father or partner of the mother.

How much paternity pay do I get in the UK?

In 2026, Statutory Paternity Pay is £184.03 per week for 1-2 weeks. If you earn less than £184.03 per week, you get 90% of your average weekly earnings. Some employers offer enhanced paternity pay (e.g., full pay). Use our calculator to see your exact entitlement.

When can I take paternity leave in the UK?

Paternity leave must be taken within 56 days of the birth (or due date for adoption). You can choose 1 or 2 weeks (must be taken together). You cannot take a single day here and there. You must notify your employer at least 15 weeks before the due date.

Paternity Pay Calculator UK - Statutory Paternity Pay Estimator

Weekly Earnings	SPP Rate	1 Week Total	2 Weeks Total
£200	£180.00 (90%)	£180.00	£360.00
£300	£184.03 (Statutory)	£184.03	£368.06
£500	£184.03 (Statutory)	£184.03	£368.06
£700	£184.03 (Statutory)	£184.03	£368.06
£1,000	£184.03 (Statutory)	£184.03	£368.06

📝 Complete Guide to Paternity Pay in the UK

This paternity pay calculator UK helps you calculate your Statutory Paternity Pay (SPP) entitlement. Understanding paternity pay is essential for new fathers planning their paternity leave and finances.

👶 What is Statutory Paternity Pay (SPP)?

SPP is the legal minimum pay for eligible fathers taking paternity leave:

Weekly Rate 2026: £184.03 per week
Alternative Rate: 90% of weekly earnings (if lower)
Duration: 1 or 2 weeks (must be taken together)
Timing: Within 56 days of birth
Employer: Must pay SPP if eligible

📊 Eligibility Requirements

You must meet all these criteria:

Employment: Employee or worker
Length of Service: 26 weeks continuous employment by 15th week before due date
Earnings: At least £123 per week (2026)
Relationship: Father or partner of the mother
Purpose: Caring for child or supporting mother

📈 Enhanced Paternity Pay

Some employers offer enhanced paternity pay:

Full Pay: Some employers pay full salary
Enhanced Rate: £200-£400 per week
Additional Weeks: Some offer 4-6 weeks
Shared Parental Leave: Can share up to 50 weeks
Check Contract: Always check your employment contract

💡 How to Claim Paternity Pay

Notify Employer: At least 15 weeks before due date
SC2 Form: Complete the SC2 form (paternity leave notification)
Birth Certificate: Provide proof of birth
Payroll: SPP is paid through PAYE (like normal salary)
HMRC: Employer recovers SPP from HMRC

⚡ UK Paternity Pay Statistics (2026)

80% of eligible fathers take paternity leave
Average paternity leave taken: 2 weeks
40% of employers offer enhanced paternity pay
SPP rate has increased 3% since 2025
Shared Parental Leave: 10% of eligible couples use it

⚠️ Important Considerations

Notice Period: Must give 15 weeks' notice
Flexibility: Leave must be taken in one block (1 or 2 weeks)
Tax: SPP is taxable income
NI: National Insurance applies
Employer Rules: Some employers have different policies

Paternity Pay Calculator UK

📊 Your Employment Details

📊 Pay Breakdown

📊 UK Paternity Pay Examples (2026)