What is Statutory Adoption Pay and who qualifies?

Statutory Adoption Pay (SAP) is a UK government benefit paid to adoptive parents taking time off work. To qualify, employees must have worked for the same employer for at least 26 weeks by the end of the 15th week before the expected placement date and earn at least £123 per week.

How much is Statutory Adoption Pay in 2025?

For the first 6 weeks, SAP is paid at 90% of average weekly earnings. For the remaining 33 weeks, it's paid at the lower of 90% of average weekly earnings or the standard rate of £184.03 per week (2025 rates).

How long is Statutory Adoption Pay paid for?

Statutory Adoption Pay is paid for up to 39 weeks (approximately 9 months). This covers the initial 6 weeks at 90% of earnings, followed by 33 weeks at the standard rate or 90% of earnings, whichever is lower.

What are employer obligations for Statutory Adoption Pay?

Employers must assess eligibility, calculate payments correctly, maintain payroll records, and can reclaim 103% of SAP payments from HMRC (or 100% for larger employers). Small employers with gross NICs under £45,000 can claim the additional 3%.

When should employees apply for Statutory Adoption Pay?

Employees should notify their employer at least 15 weeks before the expected placement date (or within 7 days if that's not possible). They must provide a matching certificate from the adoption agency and specify their chosen start date.

Can both adoptive parents claim Statutory Adoption Pay?

No, only one parent can claim Statutory Adoption Pay per adoption. However, the other parent may be eligible for Statutory Paternity Pay. From April 2015, eligible couples can also share adoption leave and pay through Shared Parental Leave.

What happens if an employee doesn't qualify for SAP?

If an employee doesn't qualify for Statutory Adoption Pay, employers must provide form SAP1 explaining why. The employee may still be eligible for Adoption Allowance from their local authority or other benefits.

How do small businesses handle SAP administration?

Small businesses should maintain detailed records, use HMRC's online services for reclaims, and consider professional payroll support. GoForma's monthly payroll service includes full statutory payment administration and HMRC reclaim management.

What is Statutory Adoption Pay?

Last updated Mar 9, 2026

1 min read

Written by Jordan MaceyAAT

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<p>It is the amount of money that must by law, be paid to an adoptive parent when he or she takes time off to adopt a child, or have a child through a surrogacy arrangement.</p>

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What is Statutory Adoption Pay?

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