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Disclaimer: This shows the statutory minimum notice only. The contract may set a longer notice period, in which case the longer period applies. Statutory minimum does not apply to gross misconduct dismissals. Always follow a fair process before dismissing. For dismissals, redundancies or settlement agreements, get advice first.
UK statutory notice periods explained
Notice is the minimum warning either side must give to end the employment. The law sets a floor. The contract can set more, but never less.
Notice an employer must give
- Less than 1 month of service: no statutory notice
- 1 month to under 2 years: at least 1 week
- 2 years or more: 1 week for each complete year, up to a maximum of 12 weeks
Notice an employee must give
Once employed for at least 1 month, an employee must give at least 1 week’s notice. This does not increase with service under statute, though the contract often requires more.
When the contract beats the statute
If the written contract sets a longer notice period, the longer period applies. Many contracts use 1 month or 3 months for senior roles. Always check the contract first.
Important exceptions
- Gross misconduct can justify dismissal without notice, but only after a fair process
- Payment in lieu of notice (PILON) may apply if the contract allows it
- Notice pay is separate from redundancy pay and accrued holiday