Redundancy pay: who qualifies and how much
If you are being made redundant in the UK, you may be entitled to statutory redundancy pay. This guide covers who qualifies, how the amount is calculated, the current caps and how to claim. You can get your figure in seconds with our redundancy pay calculator.
Who qualifies
You normally qualify if all of the following apply:
- You are an employee (not a worker or self-employed).
- You have at least 2 years' continuous service with your employer.
- You are being made redundant — not dismissed for misconduct, and not offered suitable alternative work that you unreasonably refuse.
How it is calculated
Your pay is based on your age during each full year of service:
| Age during the year | Pay per full year |
|---|---|
| Under 22 | 0.5 week's pay |
| 22 to 40 | 1 week's pay |
| 41 or over | 1.5 weeks' pay |
- Service is capped at 20 years — counted backwards from your leaving date (the most recent 20 years).
- Weekly pay is the average over the 12 weeks before your redundancy notice, capped at £751 for redundancies on or after 6 April 2026 (it was £719 before).
- The maximum statutory payment is £22,530.
This guide covers Great Britain (England, Scotland, Wales). In Northern Ireland the 2026/27 weekly pay cap is £783 (maximum £23,490).
Enhanced redundancy pay
Your contract, staff handbook or collective agreement may offer more than the statutory minimum (for example, 2 or 3 weeks per year, or no caps). Always check your paperwork: if the scheme is contractual, it is enforceable.
How to claim
- Ask your employer for your redundancy pay — it should be paid on or shortly after your last day.
- If it is not paid, write to your employer formally. Keep a copy.
- If needed, you can apply to an employment tribunal. You have 6 months from the date your job ends.
For free advice, Acas and Citizens Advice can help with disputes.
Frequently asked questions
How much is statutory redundancy pay?
Half a week's pay for each full year you were under 22, one week's pay for each year aged 22 to 40, and one and a half weeks' pay for each year aged 41 or over. Service is capped at 20 years and weekly pay is capped at £751 for redundancies on or after 6 April 2026.
Who qualifies for redundancy pay?
You normally qualify if you are an employee with at least 2 years' continuous service and you are being made redundant (not dismissed for misconduct).
How long do I have to claim?
You have 6 months from the date your job ends to apply for statutory redundancy pay.
Can my employer pay more than the statutory amount?
Yes. Many employers offer enhanced redundancy pay in contracts, policies or collective agreements. Enhanced schemes often pay more per year of service and may not apply the statutory caps.
Sources: GOV.UK — Redundancy: your rights ·official calculator. Information only, not legal advice.