Statutory Paternity Pay Calculator UK

For 2026/27 it is £194.32 a week or 90% of your average weekly earnings, whichever is lower. It is paid for up to two weeks.

You must be an employee or worker, have worked for the same employer continuously for at least 26 weeks by the end of the 15th week before the baby is due, still work for them up to the birth and earn at least £129 a week on average.

Paternity leave itself became available from the first day of employment in April 2026, but Statutory Paternity Pay still needs the 26 weeks of service and enough earnings.

Yes. You can take one week, two weeks in a row, or two separate weeks, any time within 52 weeks of the birth or placement.

Give your employer notice of your entitlement by the 15th week before the due date, and at least 28 days' notice before each period of leave you want to take.

Yes. It is paid through payroll like your wages, with income tax and National Insurance deducted as normal.

Your employer usually takes your gross pay in the eight weeks, or two months, before the end of the qualifying week and averages it.

You cannot get Statutory Paternity Pay, but you may still be entitled to paternity leave, and your partner may be able to claim other support.

No. Statutory Paternity Pay is only for employees and workers paid through payroll.

Yes. Many employers have enhanced schemes that pay full pay for the two weeks. Check your contract or staff handbook.

You may also be able to use Shared Parental Leave and Pay, which lets parents split up to 50 weeks of leave and 37 weeks of pay.

Your employer pension contributions usually continue during paid leave based on your normal pay, and your own contributions are based on what you are actually paid.