1. What is the UK Salary Calculator?

This calculator estimates your net pay (take-home salary) after deducting Income Tax, National Insurance, Student Loan repayments, and Pension Contributions for the 2025-26 tax year in the United Kingdom.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the following formula:

Where:

• Gross Pay — Your annual salary before deductions
• Income Tax — Calculated using 2025-26 UK tax brackets
• National Insurance — Calculated using 2025-26 NI rates
• Student Loan — Based on your repayment plan (if applicable)
• Pension Contributions — Percentage of salary you contribute

3. Understanding UK Tax and Deductions

Income Tax (2025-26):

• Personal Allowance: £12,570 (0% tax)
• Basic Rate (20%): £12,571 to £50,270
• Higher Rate (40%): £50,271 to £125,140
• Additional Rate (45%): Over £125,140

National Insurance (2025-26):

• 12% on earnings between £12,571 and £50,270
• 2% on earnings above £50,270

4. Using the Calculator

Steps:

1. Enter your gross annual salary
2. Select your student loan repayment plan (if applicable)
3. Enter your pension contribution percentage
4. Click "Calculate" to see your net pay and breakdown

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Are the tax rates accurate for 2025-26?
A: This calculator uses the announced rates for 2025-26. Always check HMRC for the most current rates.

Q2: How is pension contribution calculated?
A: Pension is calculated as a percentage of your gross salary before tax.

Q3: What's the difference between student loan plans?
A: Different plans have different repayment thresholds and interest rates. Plan 1 is for pre-2012 English/Welsh students, Plan 2 for post-2012, Plan 4 for Scottish students.

Q4: Does this include other deductions?
A: This calculator covers main deductions. Other deductions like union fees or charitable giving are not included.

Q5: How accurate is this calculator?
A: It provides a good estimate but your actual take-home pay may vary slightly based on specific circumstances.