What is Statutory Adoption Pay (SAP)?

Statutory Adoption Pay (SAP) is the minimum pay that adoptive parents can receive from their employer when they adopt a child. The government determines the pay rate, though it can change depending on the year. In the US, parents get SAP for up to 39 weeks. The amount is based on a percentage of the adoptive parent’s average weekly earnings.

What are the eligibility requirements for SAP?

Eligibility requirements for statutory adoption pay depend on the country and the employer. A few common requirements include:

• The employee must work at the company for a certain amount of time (usually six months to a year)
• Employees must notify employers when they decide to take adoption leave within a certain time frame before the child arrives
• Employees must match with the child through an approved adoption agency
• The employee must be responsible for raising the child and declare themselves as the child’s legal guardian
• Employees cannot exceed the maximum amount of adoption leave stipulated by law and the employer
• Employees must meet certain requirements from the employer or government, such as presenting evidence of the adoption or the child’s birth certificate

What documents does the employer need to record for SAP?

In the UK, employers must keep records for HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC). A list of such records includes:

• Proof of adoption
• The start date of the Statutory Adoption Pay
• Payments companies made towards Statutory Adoption Pay (including dates)
• Reclaimed payments
• Any weeks employers didn’t pay and an explanation for missed payments

According to the UK government, employers must keep records for three years from the end of the relevant tax year.

It’s important for employers to check their country’s laws continuously, as regulation is subject to change.

Do adoptive parents get paid in the USA?

Adoptive parents can receive an adoption subsidy or reimbursement if adopting from foster care, but they may not earn a paycheck from the adoption. Any financial assistance the government or state provides is meant to supplement the cost of a child’s needs after adoption.