Leave vs pay: different rules
Paternity leave
Day-one right. 1 or 2 weeks, within 52 weeks of the birth.
Statutory Paternity Pay
Needs 26 weeks’ service by the qualifying week and earnings of £129+ a week.
Manage family leave in one place
Family leave is where payroll and rotas most often fall out of step. A payroll provider will handle the statutory pay and the HMRC recovery; keeping every date in one place is what stops the rota being caught out.
Frequently asked questions
How much is Statutory Paternity Pay in 2026/27?
Statutory Paternity Pay is £194.32 a week, or 90% of average weekly earnings if that is lower, for 1 or 2 weeks.
Is paternity leave a day-one right?
Yes. Since April 2026 employees are entitled to paternity leave from their first day of employment. Statutory Paternity Pay still requires 26 weeks’ continuous employment by the qualifying week and average earnings of at least £129 a week.
When can paternity leave be taken?
Any time from the birth, as long as it ends within 52 weeks of the birth. The 2 weeks can be taken together or as two separate one-week blocks.
What notice must the employee give?
They must tell you about the pregnancy by the 15th week before the due week, and give at least 28 days’ notice of each period of leave. You can ask for the notice in writing.
Can employers reclaim Statutory Paternity Pay?
Yes — 92% for most employers, or 109% in 2026/27 if you qualify for Small Employers’ Relief, claimed through your Employer Payment Summary.
Official sources
- Statutory Paternity Pay and Leave: employer guide
- Rates and thresholds for employers 2026 to 2027
- Get financial help with statutory pay
Rules and fees checked September 2026. Immigration rules change often — this tool gives general information, not legal or immigration advice. For advice on an individual case, speak to a regulated immigration adviser or one of the firms listed here.