What happens when a self-employed father in the UK needs time off to care for a newborn? Can he claim paternity pay, and if not, what financial support is available?
In a time when flexibility and entrepreneurship are encouraged, self-employment continues to rise, yet statutory benefits have not kept pace.
While employed fathers are entitled to paid leave under Statutory Paternity Pay (SPP), those who work for themselves often face uncertainty and a lack of financial protection.
As we step into 2025, the UK’s benefits system still does not offer self-employed fathers the same parental entitlements as employees.
This blog explores the realities of paternity pay for self-employed fathers, the limitations they face, and the options available to ensure financial stability during what should be one of life’s most significant moments.
What Is Paternity Pay?
Paternity Pay is a government-supported benefit designed to allow new fathers or partners to take time off work to help care for their child.
In traditional employment settings, this benefit comes in the form of Statutory Paternity Pay (SPP), which is a weekly payment of £187.18 (2025 rate) or 90% of average weekly earnings, whichever is lower.
However, SPP is only available to individuals who are formally employed and paid through PAYE. It is administered by employers who recover most or all of the payment through National Insurance contributions.
For self-employed fathers, this creates a significant gap. If you are a freelancer, sole trader, gig economy worker, or own your own business, you are not eligible for SPP or the two weeks of paid paternity leave that accompany it.
Instead, self-employed fathers are left without a statutory form of paid paternity support. Though you can take time off work to care for your child, this time will be completely unpaid.
The government does not provide a paternity leave equivalent for the self-employed, and there is no dedicated scheme like Maternity Allowance that applies to fathers in self-employment.
Are Self-Employed Fathers Entitled to Any Paternity Leave in the UK?
While self-employed individuals cannot access statutory paternity pay, they can still take time off work, but this leave is not backed by employment law or financial compensation.
In essence, you are entitled to unpaid leave as a self-employed father because your work schedule is self-managed. However, there is no legal provision guaranteeing time off, and no employer is obligated to accommodate or fund your leave.
That said, some self-employed parents plan ahead and temporarily pause or reduce work to support their families during this crucial period.
Unlike employed workers, self-employed parents do not accrue employment rights such as:
- Job protection
- Paid time off
- Holiday accrual
- Return-to-work guarantees
These limitations highlight a structural inequality in the UK’s parental leave framework. Despite contributing to the economy and paying taxes, self-employed fathers are not afforded the same level of support as their employed counterparts.
What Financial Help Is Available for Self-Employed Dads in 2025?
Although SPP is not accessible, there are a few financial options that self-employed fathers may be able to rely on during their paternity period. These are often means-tested and not specific to paternity.
Table: Financial Support Options for Self-Employed Fathers (2025)
| Support Type | Eligibility Criteria | Approximate Value | Notes |
| Universal Credit | Household income & savings assessed | Varies per applicant | Must apply as part of a household claim |
| Child Benefit | All families with children under 16 (or 20 if in education) | £25.60/week (first child) | Additional children: £16.95/week |
| Local Council Grants | Varies by area and personal situation | One-off or short-term aid | Contact the local authority for availability |
| Partner’s SPL or SPP | If the partner is employed and eligible | Up to 50 weeks leave and pay | The partner must meet strict employment requirements |
In situations where taking unpaid leave results in a drop in household income, families may qualify for Universal Credit. This benefit is flexible and can provide support for housing, children, and living costs. However, because it is means-tested, higher-income families may receive little to no financial help.
What About Shared Parental Leave – Can Self-Employed Parents Use It?
Shared Parental Leave (SPL) is a scheme designed to allow two parents to split time off following the birth or adoption of a child. It allows for up to 50 weeks of leave and 37 weeks of pay, but its eligibility is tightly restricted.
SPL is not available to self-employed parents directly. However, if one parent is employed and meets eligibility requirements, it may be possible for that parent to take a greater share of leave.
For example, if the mother or second parent is employed and entitled to maternity leave and pay, they could transfer some of that entitlement to the employed partner under SPL rules.
This indirect access creates significant dependency on a partner’s employment status and makes the system less flexible for families where both parents are self-employed.
How Do Eligibility Criteria Differ Between Employed and Self-Employed Fathers?
The differences in eligibility criteria for paternity benefits between employed and self-employed individuals are stark. Here’s a breakdown of what’s required and who qualifies.
Table: Paternity Leave and Pay Eligibility (2025)
| Criteria | Employed Fathers | Self-Employed Fathers |
| Minimum Employment Period | 26 continuous weeks before the 15th week prior to the due date | Not applicable |
| Minimum Earnings | £125/week (before tax) | Not applicable |
| Employer Notification | At least 15 weeks before the due date | Not required, self-managed |
| SPP Eligibility | Yes | No |
| SPL Eligibility | Yes, if the partner also qualifies | No |
| Unpaid Leave Entitlement | Yes, protected by employment law | Informal only |
Can Self-Employed Fathers Claim Maternity Allowance Instead?
No, Maternity Allowance is a benefit specifically designed for self-employed mothers or those who are employed but don’t qualify for Statutory Maternity Pay. Self-employed fathers are not eligible for this benefit under current legislation.
There is no male equivalent to Maternity Allowance in 2025. Campaigns by advocacy organisations continue to push for a paternity version of this benefit, but as of now, no alternative has been introduced.
What Happens in Adoption or Surrogacy Cases for Self-Employed Fathers?
Self-employed fathers involved in adoption or surrogacy situations may still struggle to claim leave or pay unless their partner is employed.
For adoptions and surrogacy, the rules are as follows:
- You must be continuously employed for at least 26 weeks up to the qualifying week (when matched or due date)
- For adoptions, you may be entitled to leave if your partner is employed and shares eligibility
- Surrogate parents can claim SPP and leave only through employment
Again, self-employed individuals are excluded unless they switch to employed status and meet all eligibility conditions.
Is There Any Movement Towards Supporting Self-Employed Parents in the UK?
The UK government has faced growing criticism over its treatment of self-employed parents, especially during parental life changes. In 2025, there are ongoing policy discussions and advocacy efforts to improve access and fairness.
Proposals include:
- Introducing a self-employed paternity grant similar to Maternity Allowance
- Allowing National Insurance Class 2 contributions to count towards parental leave eligibility
- Creating a universal flat-rate parental benefit, not tied to employment status
Though no new laws have been implemented yet, many expect reforms to emerge within the next parliamentary cycle, particularly as flexible work continues to dominate the modern economy.
FAQs
Do self-employed fathers get any financial help during paternity leave in the UK?
They are not entitled to statutory paternity pay but may qualify for Universal Credit, Child Benefit, or local grants based on their household situation.
Why is there no paternity allowance like Maternity Allowance for the self-employed?
Current UK law only provides Maternity Allowance to mothers. No equivalent benefit exists for self-employed fathers, though reforms have been proposed.
Can my partner take Shared Parental Leave if I am self-employed?
Yes, if your partner is employed and qualifies, they can use SPL. However, you cannot take SPL yourself as a self-employed individual.
What can I do to prepare financially for unpaid paternity leave?
Plan ahead by saving in advance, adjusting workloads, and invoicing early. You can also explore eligibility for Universal Credit or other government support.
Are there different rules in Northern Ireland for paternity leave?
Yes, Northern Ireland has some administrative variations, so it’s best to check with NI-specific government sources.
Can I take time off for antenatal or adoption appointments as a self-employed father?
Not formally. Time off for such appointments is only protected under employment law for employees.
Is there a chance paternity pay laws will change for the self-employed?
Yes, many advocacy groups are pushing for reforms, and government consultations are in progress. Change may be possible within the next few years.
