Sick notes and fit notes: what to expect

You’ve got a stinking cold, a streaming nose and a temperature. The last thing you want to worry about is whether your employer will want a sick note. Here’s what you actually need to know about fit notes in the UK.

Do you need a fit note at all?

The first thing to know is that you do not need a fit note for the first seven days off work. Self-certification — a form you fill in yourself — covers the first week, and your employer should provide the form or a link to the online version. You’ll usually only need a doctor’s fit note from day eight onwards.

What is a fit note?

The old paper ‘sick note’ was replaced in 2010 by the fit note — a statement from a doctor that assesses whether you’re ‘not fit for work’ or ‘may be fit for work’. The fit note is a much better system for most people: instead of a blanket ‘unfit’ verdict, your doctor can suggest reasonable adjustments such as reduced hours, light duties or working from home that allow you to keep working safely.

How to get one online

If you need a fit note, you can see an online GP from home — no sitting in a waiting room with flu. During the consultation the doctor assesses your condition and, where appropriate, issues the note, which is emailed to you directly. Most notes are issued the same day, with no repeat trips and no chasing the surgery.

What to have ready

To speed things up, know the date you started your absence and how long you’ve been off. Have your employer’s name and address ready if the note needs to be addressed to them, and any relevant medical history. Honesty matters too — fit notes should reflect a genuine clinical assessment, never a request to simply ‘sign me off for two weeks’.

If you need it longer

If your illness stretches beyond the period of your original fit note, you can book a follow-up consultation to extend it. And if your condition means you won’t be returning to work soon, your GP can discuss next steps, including NHS support, occupational health and benefits advice.

A fit note is a small thing, but getting it wrong costs people money and stress. Done online, it’s one less thing to worry about when you’re feeling rough.