6. Statutory paternity pay
If you are taking time off work to care for a child, you may be entitled to ‘statutory paternity pay’ (SPP). This is payable for one or two consecutive weeks. It must be taken within eight weeks of the birth or adoption placement. To be eligible, you must have worked for the same employer for at least 26 weeks by the 15th week before the week the baby is due (or by the week you are matched with your adopted child). You must have average gross weekly earnings of at least £123. SPP is £156.66 a week, or 90% of your average earnings (whichever is less). You must meet strict notice conditions; if you have already given your employer notice that you plan to take paternity leave, this can serve for SPP as well.
, S.171ZA-E
If you can’t get SPP – If you are not eligible for SPP, your employer must give you form SPP1 explaining why you don’t qualify.