Pension calculator
Pension tax relief calculator
Capital at risk. The value of investments can fall as well as rise, and you may get back less than you put in. Past performance is not a guide to future returns.
Important: This guide provides general information, not personalised financial advice. Financial products, rates and eligibility rules can change, so check the provider’s current terms before applying.
Capital at risk. The value of investments can fall as well as rise, and you may get back less than you put in.
Last updated: .
See how a personal pension contribution is topped up by tax relief at source, and how much more higher and additional rate taxpayers could claim back.
Illustrative only, not financial or tax advice. Results depend entirely on the figures you enter. Figures filled in below are labelled “Example figure” — they aren’t recommendations.
Work out your pension tax relief
Your illustrative results
- Total going into your pension
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- Relief added by your provider
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- Extra relief you could claim
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- Your cost after all relief
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Your payment plus basic relief.
20% of the gross contribution.
Through Self Assessment or HMRC, if your rate is above 20%.
What the contribution really costs you.
How this calculator works
This applies to relief-at-source schemes (personal and stakeholder pensions, and some workplace pensions). In “net pay” workplace schemes, contributions come out before tax, so relief works differently. Extra relief is approximate: it depends on how much of your income is taxed at the higher rate.
Employer contributions aren’t included. Results are rounded to the penny.
The formulas we use
Relief at source: gross = your payment ÷ 0.8; provider adds gross − your payment.
Extra relief: gross × (your rate − 20%), only if your rate is above 20%.
Real cost: your payment − extra relief
Key limits
| Rule | 2026/27 |
|---|---|
| Basic relief added by provider (relief at source) | 20% |
| Annual allowance | £60,000 (may be lower if tapered or after flexible access) |
| Relief limit | Contributions up to 100% of your annual earnings |
| No earnings | Relief on up to £2,880 a year (£3,600 gross) |
| Scottish 19% starter rate | Still gets relief at 20% |
Source: GOV.UK, checked 4 October 2026.
FAQ
How do I claim higher-rate pension tax relief?
Through your Self Assessment tax return, or by contacting HMRC if you don’t file one.
What is the annual allowance?
£60,000 for 2026/27 — the most you can pay in across pensions before a tax charge, unless tapered or reduced.
I don’t pay tax. Do I still get relief?
Yes, at 20% on contributions up to £2,880 a year (£3,600 gross).
Does this work for salary sacrifice?
No. Salary sacrifice works differently — ask your employer.
Does this calculator store my figures?
No.
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