Understanding Sick Notes
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What Do the Dates on a Sick Note Mean?
A sick note (officially called a fit note) contains two key dates — and they mean different things. Most confusion comes from the “until date” on a sick note: specifically, whether you are expected back at work on that date, or the day after, or whether you need to contact your employer first. This guide explains exactly what each date means and what you are required to do.
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The “from” date
The date your sick leave begins. Your sick note certifies incapacity from this date onwards. If you were already off before seeing the doctor, the note can be backdated to cover the period from when you first became unwell — provided clinical evidence supports this.
The “until” date — the one that causes confusion
The last day your sick note covers. It does not mean “return to work on this date.” It means your certified absence is valid up to and including this date. What happens next depends on whether you have recovered — see below.
What Happens When a Sick Note Expires?
When a sick note reaches its “until” date, one of three things should happen:
You have recovered — return to workYou can return to work on the first working day after the until date without needing another certificate. The expiry of the fit note is itself the signal that certified sick leave has ended.
You are still unwell — get a new sick noteIf you remain unfit when the note expires, you need a new sick note to extend your certified absence. Do not wait until the last day — apply a day or two before expiry to avoid a gap in cover.
You are partially recovered — phased returnIf you are recovering but not ready for full duties, a new note can be issued under the “may be fit for work” assessment, documenting a phased return arrangement with your employer.
Your note says “reassess at end of period”Some fit notes include a recommendation to reassess — meaning your doctor wants to review you before you return. Contact your GP or a private doctor before the until date to arrange this.
Do You Need to Tell Your Employer Before Returning?
Yes — most employers expect you to contact them before returning, even if your fit note has simply expired. It does not need to be formal: a message or call to your line manager confirming you are fit and will be back is generally sufficient.
Some employers also request a return to work meeting on your first day back — this is standard practice and is intended to be supportive, not disciplinary. Your employer may ask how you are, whether any adjustments would help, and whether any further support is needed.
Can your employer require a separate return-to-work certificate?
In most standard employment situations, the expiry of a fit note is sufficient — employers cannot generally make return to work legally conditional on a separate medical clearance letter. However, many employers request one for absences of four weeks or more, or for safety-critical roles.
If your employer requires a return to work certificate, MedicalCert can issue one online the same day — a signed letter from a GMC-registered doctor confirming you are fit to resume your duties.
How to Extend a Sick Note Before It Expires
If you are still unwell when your sick note is about to expire, you need a new certificate to cover the continued absence. Each MedicalCert sick note covers up to 14 days — extensions can be issued by submitting a new consultation before the current note expires.
Do not wait until the day your note expires to apply. Submit your extension request one to two days before the until date to avoid any gap in your certified absence — a gap means the days in between are uncertified, which can affect Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) and your employer’s records.
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