UK Take-Home Pay Calculator

Calculate UK net salary after income tax and National Insurance deductions.

Reviewed by the ToolNestr Editorial Team — July 2026

Disclaimer: For general information only — this is not financial, tax, investment or legal advice. Results are estimates; confirm figures with a qualified professional before making any financial decision.

Tax year

Annual Salary (£)

Pension Contribution (%)

Scottish taxpayer

Student loan plan

How UK income tax works

The UK uses a progressive tax system: you pay no tax on the first £12,570 (Personal Allowance), 20% on the next £37,700, 40% on earnings from £50,271 to £125,140, and 45% on everything above. National Insurance is a separate contribution that funds the NHS, state pension, and other benefits.

Worked example — £50,000 salary (2025/26, England)

The first £12,570 is tax-free, leaving £37,430 taxed at the 20% basic rate = £7,486 income tax. Employee National Insurance is 8% on earnings between £12,570 and £50,270, so 8% of £37,430 = £2,994. Take-home pay is therefore roughly £50,000 − £7,486 − £2,994 = £39,520 a year (about £3,293 a month) before any pension or student-loan deductions. Adding a 5% pension contribution lowers taxable pay first, so it both cuts the tax bill and moves money into your pension.

Figures illustrate the 2025/26 rest-of-UK rates; use the calculator above for your exact salary, tax year and region.

Tips

Pension contributions are deducted before tax, reducing your taxable income.
The Personal Allowance reduces by £1 for every £2 earned over £100,000.
Marriage Allowance lets couples transfer unused Personal Allowance.

Frequently asked questions

What are the 2025/26 UK tax rates?

Personal allowance £12,570 (0%), basic rate 20% (£12,571-£50,270), higher rate 40% (£50,271-£125,140), additional rate 45% (above £125,140).

How is National Insurance calculated?

Employees pay 8% on earnings between £12,570 and £50,270, and 2% on earnings above £50,270.

What about Scotland?

Scottish taxpayers have six income tax bands: starter 19%, basic 20%, intermediate 21%, higher 42%, advanced 45%, and top 48%. Tick the Scotland option to use these bands.

How does a pension affect my take-home pay?

Pension contributions come out of your gross pay before tax, reducing your taxable income.

Sources & references

This tool uses standard formulas and reference values from:

• HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) — Income Tax bands, Personal Allowance and National Insurance rates. gov.uk/income-tax-rates
• HMRC PAYE guidance for the relevant tax year.

Estimate only, not tax advice. Confirm current thresholds with HMRC or a qualified accountant.