How to Get a Fit Note Online in the UK (2026 Guide)

Last updated: February 2026

Being unwell is stressful enough. The last thing you want is to sit in a waiting room just to get a sick note.

Many people search for a “sick note online” — this is simply the common name for a fit note in the UK.

Thankfully, getting a fit note online in the UK is now quick, legal, and widely accepted.

Whether you’re down with flu, a stomach bug, migraine, or simply can’t attend your GP in person, online GP services now offer fast, legitimate, doctor-issued fit notes, straight to your inbox.

Here’s a practical guide to help you understand how online fit notes work, when you need one, and how to get one quickly and safely.

What is a Fit Note?

A fit note (officially called a Statement of Fitness for Work) is a medical certificate issued by a doctor confirming that:

• You are not fit for work, or
• You may be fit for work with adjustments

Fit notes are issued by healthcare professionals registered with the General Medical Council (GMC), NMC or HCPC.

Since 2022, fit notes can legally be:

• Digital
• Emailed as a PDF
• Electronically signed

They do not need to be printed or stamped on paper to be valid.

A legitimate online fit note performs the same legal function as the traditional paper fit note.

A valid UK fit note must include:

• Your name and date of assessment

• A general reason you’re medically unfit for work (no detailed diagnosis needed)

• The recommended duration of time off

• The doctor’s name, GMC registration number, and digital signature or stamp of the doctor or, if not issued by the doctor, other healthcare professional’s name and profession

A digital fit note is fully legal and acceptable across the UK.

However, employers may verify your online certificate.

When Do You Need a Fit Note in the UK?

According to official guidance on GOV.UK:

• You can self-certify for the first 7 calendar days of illness (including non-working days, such as weekends and bank holidays.)
• You need a fit note from day 8 onwards.

This applies for:

• Statutory Sick Pay (SSP)
• Employer sick leave policies
• Ongoing absence beyond 7 days

Some employers may request evidence earlier under internal policies, but legally, a fit note is required from day 8.

Are Online Fit Notes Accepted by UK Employers?

Yes. UK law does not require a paper certificate.

Employers must accept a valid fit note if it:

• Includes your full name
• Shows the date of assessment
• States you are unfit (or may be fit) for work
• Specifies the duration
• Includes the doctor’s name and GMC number

Digital PDF certificates are standard practice across the UK.

If an employer is unsure, they can verify the doctor’s GMC registration directly through the GMC online register.

What to Do If Your Employer Rejects Your Online Fit Note?

If your fit note is rejected by your employer, here’s what you can do:

• Check the Certificate Is Complete and Valid:

Make sure your fit note includes your details, doctor’s information, the date, and confirmation that you’re unfit for work. Missing information is one of the common reasons fit notes are rejected.

• Provide Verification Information:

If your employer doubts the certificate, offer verification such as the clinic’s contact information or permission for them to confirm it with your GP.

• Reference UK Law:

Direct them to GOV.UK guidance on fit notes and Statutory Sick Pay.

• Seek Advice

If the issue continues, you may contact:

• ACAS (Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service)
• Citizens Advice
  

Both organisations provide free advice on employment disputes.

• Consider an In-Person Follow Up (If Necessary):

If necessary, your doctor can reassess you in person and issue an updated certificate, especially if the first note was provided online.

How to Get a Fit Note Online in the UK:

Generally, getting a fit note in the UK involves these steps:

Step 1: Choose a Trusted UK GP Platform

First, you need to choose a trusted GP or telehealth provider. Look for services that:

• Uses General Medical Council (GMC)-registered doctors
• Are GDPR-compliant
• Shows clear pricing upfront
• Issue secure, verifiable PDF fit notes

Avoid websites that promise “guaranteed approval” without assessment.

Step 2: Complete a Short Medical Questionnaire

You’ll typically need to provide:

• Your symptoms
• Duration of illness
• Your basic personal details
• Relevant medical history
• How your condition affects your work

This helps the doctor assess your condition ethically and safely.

Step 3: Attend a Phone / Video Consultation (If Required)

Some conditions require a brief 5–10 minute consultation. It may be a phone or video call, depending on the clinical need.

It’s like a standard GP consultation, just done from your home.

Step 4: Receive Your Fit Note by Email

Most online services issue notes:

• Within 1–2 hours for straightforward cases
• Within 24 hours if consultation is required

You’ll receive:

• A secure PDF
• Download link
• Or direct employer submission (if requested)

How Long Can an Online Fit Note Cover?

This depends on clinical judgement.

For short-term illnesses, online providers often issue notes covering:

• 3–7 days

Longer absences usually require reassessment.

There is no fixed legal maximum — it depends on the doctor’s evaluation.

Common Illnesses Suitable for Online Fit Notes

Online GP fit notes work well for:

• Flu or cold symptoms
• Sore throat or viral infections
• Mild COVID-19
• Headaches
• Migraine flare-ups
• Back pain
• Stress-related symptoms (depending on assessment)

Severe or complex conditions may require an in-person GP visit.

Learn more about common reasons for sick leave in the UK.

How Much Does an Online Fit Note Cost in the UK?

Private online fit notes typically cost £20–£45

Costs vary depending on:

• Whether consultation is required
• Length of certificate
• Provider reputation

NHS GP-issued fit notes are free — but may require appointment availability.

Is it Safe to Get a Fit Note Online?

Yes, as long as the doctor is GMC-registered and the service is reputable.

Choose platforms that clearly list:

• GMC registration numbers
• Doctor credentials
• Clinical assessment process
• Privacy policy
• Secure payment methods

How to Spot a Fake or Unreliable Online Fit Note Service?

There are some simple things you should be careful about. Be cautious if you see:

• No GMC Registration Number Displayed

A legitimate UK doctor must display their GMC registration number. You can verify this directly on the General Medical Council (GMC) online register. If it’s missing or doesn’t match, avoid the service.

• No Consultation Required

Legitimate providers always ask health questions or provide a proper consultation. Instant fit notes without any assessment are a clear warning sign.

• Unrealistic Promises

Be cautious of claims like “ guaranteed approval” or “instant fit notes for any reason”. Genuine doctors can only issue a fit note after assessing your condition.

• No Privacy Policy or GDPR Compliance

If the website doesn’t clearly explain how your data is protected under GDPR, your personal information may not be safe.

• Payment Methods That Can’t Be Traced

Avoid the services that only accept untraceable payments (such as gift cards). Trustworthy healthcare providers use secure, trackable payment methods.

Online vs In-Person Fit Note: Quick Comparison

Get a Fit Note Online in the UK

Sicknote.com is a trusted online healthcare platform that provides fast, secure, and legally valid, same-day fit notes issued after medical consultation and approval by an GMC-registered doctor and accepted by employers in the UK.

Sicknote.com provides full transparency, listing doctor credentials and ensuring medically responsible assessments.

We make getting fit notes simple—no travel, no waiting rooms, no stress.