If you're unwell and cannot work for more than 7 days, you may need a fit note for your employer. You do not need a fit note if you cannot work for 7 days or less.
The purpose of a fit note is to support you to return to work or stay in work. If you require a fit note to help you claim benefits or statutory sick pay (SSP), you will need to speak to your GP specifically for this.
How to get a fit note
A healthcare professional supporting you with your care (e.g. doctor, nurse, physiotherapist or occupational therapist), will assess and support you before determining whether you’re “not fit for work” or ”may be fit for work”. If your employer cannot offer the support or make reasonable adjustments, then the fit note is treated as though it says you're “not fit for work”.
Going back to work
You should go back to work as soon as you feel able to and under the advice of your healthcare professional. This may be before the end date on your fit note.
Your employer may ask for confirmation that you’re fit for work, but healthcare professionals do not have to provide this.
Cost
You do not need to pay for a fit note if you're off sick for more than 7 days. If your employer asks for evidence for the first 7 days of sickness, a healthcare professional may charge a fee for this. Your employer should pay the fee.
This is information is taken from www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/gps/getting-a-fit-note/
