SICKNESS-BENEFIT

SICKNESS-BENEFIT (Section 49 of the ESI Act)

Sickness Benefit is paid in cash to the insured persons to compensate their loss of wages in the event of sickness certified by an authorised medical officer. It is admissible for 91 days in an year and the cash benefit is equal to 50% of the wages.   ELIGIBILITY CONDITIONS FOR SICKNESS BENEFIT & EXTENDED SICKNESS BENEFIT   Not less than 78 days contribution in the relevant contribution period for sickness benefit and not less than 156 days contribution in 4 relevant contribution periods and eligibility for sickness benefit at least in one of these contribution periods and two years of service are essential eligibility conditions for Extended Sickness Benefit.   ENHANCED-SICKNESS-BENEFIT   It is admissible for sterilization operation. Duration is 14 days in case of Tubectomy Operation (extendable by another 7 days on medical advice) and 7 days in case of Vasectomy. Eligibility conditions are same as for sickness benefit mentioned above. The rate approximately equals full wages.