How to Request a Fit Note

If you are off work for 7 days or less, you do not need to give your employer a fit note or other proof of sickness from a medical professional.

Your employer may however require you to complete a self-certification form (SC2) which is available from your employer or you can download it from the HMRC website.

You must give your employer a doctor’s ‘fit note’ (sometimes called a ‘sick note’) if you’ve been ill for more than 7 days in a row and have taken sick leave. This includes non-working days, such as weekends and bank holidays.

Ongoing sick/fit notes: If you already have a fit note and need it extended for the same condition, please submit your request through our online consultation service. Include details of your condition and how long you need the note for.

Get Started

New episodes of illness: If this is your first request for a fit note for a new health problem, you will need to speak to a doctor (e.g. via our Telephone Advice Line). Please do not use the online request form for new conditions.

Backdating: We cannot issue fit notes for periods before you were seen by a doctor.

Our team will review your request and issue the note if appropriate.