Procedure for reimbursement of sick days during 01.01.2021-30.04.2021

In order to limit the spread of the COVID-19 virus, a different regulation of compensation for sick days will apply from the beginning of this year. This is a temporary change that is only valid for a specific period: from 1.01.2021 to 30.04.2021.

In the period 1.01.2021 – 30.04.2021, the rule applies that the employee’s deductible is the first day of illness, the employer pays the benefit from the second to the fifth day and the Health Insurance Fund pays the benefit from the sixth day. The employee receives the benefit from the second day of illness. Thereby it is expected to reduce people’s sickness at work and employees’ deductibles, in order to avoid the spread of COVID-19.

This temporary arrangement applies to initial sick leave starting on 1.01.2021 and applies to exemptions starting before 1.05.2021. The procedure for reimbursing maintenance certificates will not change.

According to the Health Board, you are also entitled to sickness benefit for days spent in self-isolation due to close contact with a COVID-19 patient.

It is important to note that such arrangements are only temporary. As of May 1, 2021, the current regulation will come into force again.

We also reiterate the call of the Health Board to avoid contact, maintain distance and wear a mask. Additional information about COVID-19 can be found on the website of the Health Board, information page related to vaccination www.vaktsineeri.ee.

Law Firm ALTERNA’s partner/attorney-at-law Annika Vait