How is holiday pay worked out?

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This guide is for union reps - understanding coronavirus and workplace issues, employer negotiations and how best protect the workforce

Coronavirus - Guidance for unions

Published date

09 Nov 2022

Pay during holidays is calculated in the same way as a normal week’s pay. This simple but important principle was established after many years of litigating by trade unions, up to the level of the European Court of Justice.

These cases have established that when on holiday, you should be paid the same pay as when you are working. For example, it should include:

Results-based commission pay that would have been earned if you had not been on holiday;
Regular overtime pay (this includes all regular voluntary overtime, that is, shifts that you can choose whether or not to work);
Travel-time payments;
Shift premiums;
Weekend premium payments; and
Anti-social hours payments.

Note: This content is provided as general background information and should not be taken as legal advice or financial advice for your particular situation. Make sure to get individual advice on your case from your union, a source on our free help page or an independent financial advisor before taking any action.

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