What comes off a UK salary
Two things: Income Tax and National Insurance. The first £12,570 a year is tax-free (the Personal Allowance). Above that, England, Wales and Northern Ireland charge 20%, then 40%, then 45%. Scotland has its own six bands from 19% to 48%. Above £100,000 the allowance shrinks by £1 for every £2.
National Insurance for employees is 8% on earnings between £12,570 and £50,270 a year, and 2% above that. It builds your right to the State Pension, so check that your National Insurance number is on your payslip.
New to the UK? Watch your tax code
If you start a job without a P45 from a previous UK employer, you fill in a starter checklist and may be put on an “emergency” tax code for a few months, which can take too much tax. It corrects itself once HMRC has your details, and any overpayment comes back through your pay or as a refund. Your tax code is on every payslip and in the HMRC app.
Frequently asked questions
Does it include pension and student loan?
No. Workplace pension contributions and student loan repayments come off on top. Subtract them from the result, or check your payslip.
Why is my payslip slightly different?
Payroll works month by month, and your tax code may not be the standard one. Benefits in kind, overtime and bonuses also change a single month.
Is this for self-employed people?
No, it is for employees. Self-employed people pay Income Tax through Self Assessment and National Insurance under different rules.
Is my salary saved?
No. The calculation runs in your browser and nothing is sent or stored.
Sources
- GOV.UK: Income Tax rates and allowances
- Scottish Government: Scottish income tax 2026/27
- GOV.UK: National Insurance rates
Estimate for employees on a standard tax code; not tax advice. Your payslip is the final word. Disclaimer.