Fit Notes (Sick Notes)

How can I get a fit note?

If you need a fit note, please fill in the form at the bottom of this page. Or if you are getting hospital treatment, ask for one from your hospital doctor.

Your doctor will assess you, and if they decide your health affects your fitness for work, they can issue a fit note and advise either that:

• you are “not fit for work”
• you “may be fit for work taking into account the following advice”

Your doctor will choose the “may be fit for work” option if they think that you are able to do some work, even if it is not your usual job, with support from your employer.

Discuss this advice with your employer to see if you can return to work. For example, your doctor may suggest possible changes, such as:

• returning to work gradually, for example, by starting part time
• temporarily working different hours
• performing different duties or tasks
• having other support to do your job. For example, if you have back pain, avoiding heavy lifting

If your employer is unable to accommodate the changes advised by a doctor, then the fit note is treated as though it said “unfit for work”.

Charges for fit notes

There is never a charge from a doctor for providing a fit note if you’re off sick from work for more than 7 days.

For sickness of 7 days or less, your GP practice may charge you to provide a private medical certificate.

For example, some employers may request medical evidence from employees who repeatedly take time off sick, even if each time they’re off work it’s for 7 days or less. A fit note cannot be used for this purpose and a doctor may charge to issue a private certificate.