Notice Period Calculator
Work out your statutory notice period, check it against your contractual terms, and understand your rights to pay in lieu of notice and garden leave.
Last updated: February 2026
This tool provides estimates based on current UK employment law. It is not legal advice.
How it works
Enter your service details
Your employment start date and any contractual notice period from your contract of employment.
See your notice entitlement
Statutory minimum compared to your contractual notice, with the higher figure applying.
Understand your options
Guidance on PILON, garden leave, and what happens if your employer asks you to leave immediately.
What you'll get
Your notice period
8 weeks
Plus personalised AI analysis of your specific situation, risk factors, and recommended next steps.
Notice periods in UK employment law
When your employment ends — whether you resign or are dismissed — both you and your employer are usually required to give notice. The statutory minimum notice period depends on how long you have been employed.
Statutory minimum notice
- 1 month to 2 years: 1 week
- 2 to 12 years: 1 week for each complete year of service
- 12 years or more: 12 weeks (the maximum statutory notice)
Contractual notice
Your contract may specify a longer notice period than the statutory minimum. If so, the contractual notice applies. Your employer cannot give you less than the statutory minimum, even if your contract says otherwise.
Pay in lieu of notice (PILON)
Your employer may offer to pay you instead of requiring you to work your notice. If your contract includes a PILON clause, this payment is taxable as earnings. If there is no PILON clause, the first £30,000 may be tax-free as a termination payment.
Based on authoritative sources
Frequently Asked Questions
How much notice does my employer have to give me?
At minimum, 1 week for each complete year of service, up to a maximum of 12 weeks. Your contract may specify a longer period, which takes precedence.
Can my employer make me leave immediately?
Only if they pay you in lieu of notice (PILON), or if you have committed gross misconduct. Otherwise, you are entitled to work your notice period and receive your normal pay.
What is garden leave?
Garden leave means you remain employed during your notice period but are not required to come to work. You continue to receive your normal pay and benefits. It is often used when there are concerns about confidential information or client contact.
Is notice pay taxed?
If you work your notice or your contract includes a PILON clause, notice pay is taxed as normal earnings. If your employer pays you in lieu without a contractual right to do so, it may form part of a tax-free termination payment (up to £30,000).
Ready to check your entitlement?
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Calculate Your Notice Period