GP Fit Notes (Sick Note)

You do not require a doctor’s sickness certificate for any illness lasting 7 days or less.

You can complete a self-certificate form yourself. Lots of employers will have their own self certification forms, however if they don’t, you can complete a form by following the link below and giving it to your employer: LC Forms (hmrc.gov.uk)

If you have been off work sick for more than 7 days, then you may need to show your employer a fit note (also known as an NHS sick note) from your GP to confirm that you have been unwell and to show when you will be able to return to work. You can request a GP fit note using our online system. Find out more below.

How to get a fit note:

You can request a fit note from your GP using our online system. Once you have completed the form, your GP will get in contact to either issue a fit note to say that you’re fit to work or book an appointment to see you face-to-face. This depends on your illness and whether you have been in hospital.

At the appointment, your GP will assess you and give you medical advice. Based on your appointment, they will be able to tell if you are fit for work but might need to make some possible changes, or if you are not fit for work.

You do not need a return-to-work note. If you feel well enough to return to work before the end date of your fit note, you can discuss this with your employer.