Statutory Adoption Pay Calculator
Instantly estimate your Statutory Adoption Pay (SAP) based on your average weekly earnings and planned leave duration. Accurate, free, and up-to-date for 2026/2027.
Calculate Your Adoption Pay
Enter your average weekly earnings and planned leave duration below to get an instant, accurate estimate of your Statutory Adoption Pay entitlement.
Adoption Pay Estimator
Fill in your details to see your estimated statutory pay breakdown
Your gross average weekly earnings before tax
Statutory Adoption Pay is available for up to 39 weeks
Estimated Adoption Pay
Breakdown based on 2026/2027 statutory rates
Statutory Adoption Entitlements
Overview of standard statutory adoption leave and pay entitlements for eligible employees in the UK. Always verify with your HR department for enhanced contractual benefits.
| Entitlement Type | Duration | Pay Rate | Key Condition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ordinary Adoption Leave | Up to 26 weeks | Unpaid (unless enhanced) | Available from day 1 of employment |
| Statutory Adoption Pay (SAP) | Up to 39 weeks | 90% earnings (first 6 wks), then £194.32/wk | 26 weeks continuous employment |
| Additional Adoption Leave | Up to 26 weeks | Unpaid (unless enhanced) | Follows Ordinary Adoption Leave |
| Statutory Shared Parental Pay | Up to 37 weeks | £194.32/wk or 90% of earnings | Must curtail adoption leave/pay |
Adoption Pay FAQ
Everything you need to know about eligibility, calculations, and understanding your statutory adoption rights.
Statutory Adoption Pay (SAP) is paid for up to 39 weeks. The first 6 weeks are paid at 90% of your average weekly earnings, and the remaining 33 weeks are paid at the statutory flat rate or 90% of your earnings, whichever is lower.
From April 2026, the statutory flat rate for the remaining 33 weeks of adoption pay is £194.32 per week, or 90% of your average weekly earnings, whichever is lower. The first 6 weeks are always paid at 90% of your average weekly earnings, regardless of the flat rate.
To qualify for SAP, you must be an employee (not self-employed), have been continuously employed by your employer for at least 26 weeks by the week you are matched with a child, and earn at least the Lower Earnings Limit for National Insurance contributions.
Yes, many employers offer enhanced contractual adoption pay as part of their benefits package. You should always check your employment contract or speak with your HR department to see if you are eligible for enhanced pay, which can significantly increase your total entitlement.