Statutory Pay

Statutory Paternity Pay Calculator

Calculate how much you'll get paid during your 1 or 2 weeks of paternity leave. Updated for the new April 2026 day-one rights.

Your Earnings

£

Under the new April 2026 rules, you can take these weeks consecutively or separately within 52 weeks of the birth.

Total SPP Entitlement

£388.64

Before tax and National Insurance deductions.

Weekly SPP Rate£194.32

* Paid at the standard statutory rate.

New Paternity Leave Rules (April 2026)

The Employment Rights Act 2025 introduced major changes to Statutory Paternity Pay (SPP) and Leave, making it much more flexible for fathers and partners:

  • Day One Right: You no longer need to have worked for your employer for 26 weeks. You are eligible for paternity leave from your first day on the job.
  • More Flexibility: You can take your 2 weeks of leave consecutively, or split them into two separate 1-week blocks.
  • Longer Window: You now have 52 weeks after the birth (or placement for adoption) to take your leave, instead of just 56 days.

How much will you get paid?

The statutory rate for Paternity Pay is £194.32 per week (for the 2026/27 tax year), or 90% of your average weekly earnings if that is lower.

Many employers offer enhanced paternity pay. For example, they might pay your full salary for the 2 weeks. Check your employment contract or staff handbook to see if you get more than the statutory minimum.

Shared Parental Leave

If 2 weeks isn't enough, you and your partner might be able to use Shared Parental Leave (SPL). This allows you to share up to 50 weeks of leave and up to 37 weeks of pay between you.

You can take SPL in blocks separated by periods of work, or take it all in one go. You can also choose to be off work together or stagger your leave.

Related Guides

Maternity Pay Calculator

Calculate SMP over the full 39 weeks.

Child Benefit & HICBC

Check if you're affected by the High Income Child Benefit Charge.

Take-Home Calculator

Check your standard take-home pay after tax.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is Statutory Paternity Pay in 2026?
The statutory rate is £194.32 a week, or 90% of your average weekly earnings (whichever is lower).
Do I qualify for paternity leave if I just started a new job?
Yes. As of April 2026, the Employment Rights Act made paternity leave a 'day-one right', meaning you no longer need 26 weeks of continuous service to qualify.
How long can I take for paternity leave?
You can choose to take either 1 or 2 weeks. Under the new rules, you can take these weeks together or separately, at any time within the first 52 weeks after the birth.