Answers · UK 2025/26

How much is Statutory Paternity Pay in 2026/27?

Statutory Paternity Pay for 2026/27 is £194.32 a week, or 90% of your average weekly earnings if that is lower. You can take one or two weeks off, and the pay is the same flat weekly rate for the whole period. You must earn at least £125 a week on average to qualify.

Last updated: 7 June 2026Last reviewed: 7 June 2026How we verify

Full answer

Statutory Paternity Pay (SPP) for 2026/27 is paid at £194.32 a week, or 90% of your average weekly earnings if that figure is lower. Unlike Statutory Maternity Pay, there is no higher 90% rate for the first six weeks of paternity leave, the flat weekly rate applies throughout. You can take either one week or two consecutive weeks of paternity leave, and from recent rule changes the leave can be taken in two separate one-week blocks within the first year after the birth or adoption. To qualify you must be an employee, have worked continuously for your employer for at least 26 weeks up to the relevant qualifying week, and earn on average at least the lower earnings limit of £125 a week. You also need to give the correct notice, usually at least 28 days before you want the pay to start. Paternity pay is treated as earnings, so it is subject to Income Tax and National Insurance through PAYE. If you do not qualify for SPP, for example because you are self-employed or earn below the lower earnings limit, you will not receive statutory paternity pay, although you may still be entitled to time off. Some employers offer enhanced or full-pay paternity leave through a company policy, which is more generous than the statutory minimum. Use the Take-Home Pay calculator to see the net value of statutory pay alongside your normal salary.