UK Notice Periods: Questions Answered

→ Open the UK Notice Pay Calculator

The rules around UK notice periods in 2026 — what the statutory minimum means for you and how contracts, PILON and garden leave interact.

Frequently asked questions

What's the difference between statutory and contractual notice?

Statutory notice is the legal minimum (1 week per year up to 12 for the employer). Contractual notice is whatever your contract says. If the contract requires more, the longer period applies.

Can I be dismissed without notice?

Only for genuine gross misconduct (summary dismissal). Ordinary dismissals, including redundancy, require at least statutory notice.

What is garden leave?

Being asked to stay away from work during your notice while still being paid. You remain employed and bound by your contract during it.

Is PILON taxed?

Yes — payment in lieu of notice is generally taxed as normal earnings, including the notice element.

What pay do I get during notice?

Your normal pay. Where pay varies, it's based on average weekly earnings over the 12 weeks before notice.

Do I still accrue holiday during notice?

Yes — you continue to accrue statutory holiday during your notice period, and any untaken balance is paid out.