Bank Holiday Overlap Checker
Check if your annual leave overlaps with bank holidays and calculate the most efficient way to book time off. When you book leave that includes bank holidays, understanding how they're treated in your contract can make a significant difference to your total time away from work.
Model A vs Model B Contracts
There are two main approaches to bank holidays in employment contracts. Model A (Inclusive): Your annual leave includes bank holidays, meaning you take them as part of your normal entitlement. Model B (Top-up): You get bank holidays in addition to your annual leave, giving you extra days off.
Why Overlaps Matter
- Booking around bank holidays can extend your time off significantly
- Understanding your contract type prevents misunderstandings with HR
- Strategic booking around bank holidays maximizes your leave
- Some contracts deduct bank holidays from your annual leave
- Others give bank holidays as extra days
How This Calculator Helps
Enter your planned leave dates and contract type to see exactly which bank holidays fall within your leave period. The calculator shows you the total calendar days you'll be off, how many are paid leave days, and whether your booking strategy is optimal. Source: GOV.UK Holiday Entitlement Rights
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many bank holidays do I get in the UK?
England and Wales have 8 bank holidays per year, Scotland has 9, and Northern Ireland typically has 10. You can check exact dates on GOV.UK.
What happens if a bank holiday falls during my annual leave?
If a bank holiday falls during your annual leave, you are entitled to have that day re-credited to your leave allowance, unless the bank holiday is already included within the statutory 28-day minimum under a Model B contract.
Do part-time workers get bank holidays?
Part-time workers are entitled to bank holidays pro-rata. If a bank holiday falls on a day you do not normally work, you are not automatically entitled to time off in lieu — but many employers grant it. Check your contract.
What happens if I work on a bank holiday?
If you work on a bank holiday, you are entitled to a day off in lieu unless your contract explicitly states otherwise. This extra day is on top of your normal annual leave allowance.
How do bank holidays affect my statutory minimum annual leave?
Under Model A, bank holidays are given on top of your 28-day statutory entitlement. Under Model B, bank holidays are counted within your 28 days, reducing the days you can freely book. Always check your employment contract.