Would you risk a fine for a term-time holiday?

Families can save hundreds of pounds by booking a trip away outside the school holidays - but many might see that saving wiped out by hefty fines.

According to the Department for Education, 459,288 school holiday fines were issued in England in 2024-25.

That’s 4% up on the previous year and means the number is now at a record high.

Figures also show that fines for unauthorised family holidays accounted for 93% of all penalty notices issued last year.

How much is the fine?

If your child misses school without permission, you could be hit with an £80 fine per parent, per child.

And if you don’t pay within 21 days, that jumps to £160.

If you ignore it completely, councils can take legal action, which could lead to a court appearance and an even bigger fine.

So for a two-parent household with two children, that’s £320 upfront - or £640 if you miss the 21-day deadline.

Where are parents being fined the most?

Yorkshire and the Humber was the region with the highest rate of penalty notices issued, with about 10 out of every 100 pupils being linked to a fine.

Meanwhile, London issued the fewest fines - about 4 out of every 100 pupils.

When can I get fined?

You can get fined if your child misses school without permission from the headteacher. 

That includes:

• holidays during term time
• unexplained absences
• late arrivals (in some areas)

The only time you won’t be fined is if the school agrees the absence is for an exceptional reason, such as: 

• a family bereavement
• a religious event
• medical appointments that couldn’t be scheduled outside school hours

But holidays aren’t classed as exceptional, even if they’re cheaper during term time.

What can I do if I can’t afford the fines?

If you can’t afford to repay a school fine for term-time absence, then options are available.

But because the fine goes up after 21 days, it’s important to act quickly. 

Speak to your local authority

Contact the council that issued the fine as soon as possible and explain your financial situation.

They might offer you:

• more time to pay
• a payment plan
• a review or appeal if you have exceptional circumstances

They’re not required to cancel the fine, but they may be flexible if you're struggling.

Check if you can appeal

Fines can only be challenged in very specific circumstances, such as if: 

• you believe the absence was authorised
• you weren’t properly notified
• the fine was issued in error

You’ll need to raise this directly with the school or local authority. 

Be ready to provide evidence.

Get debt advice

If you were already dealing with money problems before being hit with the fine, it might be worth seeking support.

We can help you:

• get to grips with your household budget
• find out what benefits you might be entitled to claim
• help you get the support that’s right for you

Prioritise essential bills

If you’re juggling multiple bills, focus on priority debts first like rent, council tax, energy bills and fines. 

These carry the most serious consequences if left unpaid.

A school fine is considered a priority debt once legal action starts, so don’t ignore it.